Care & Wellness

Giving Pills to Cats

Giving pills to cats can be a challenge even for the most experienced veterinarian! The easiest way to give your cat a pill is to hide the pill in food. Soft treats are also available that can be used to hide the pill by molding the treat around it (e.g., Pill Pockets™). If your cat persists in spitting out the pills or if dietary restrictions prevent you from hiding the pills in an appealing food or treat, you will need to administer the pill directly into the cat's mouth. Following pilling your cat, give her some positive reinforcement (e.g., treats, brushing, petting or playing).

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Giving Injections to Cats

Certain medical conditions can be controlled by the use of drugs that are only available in an injectable format. In many cases, cat owners are willing and able to administer these medications at home. Most cats do not seem to mind routine injections which are given in the subcutaneous tissue. This handout provides step by step instructions. Dispose of the used needles and syringes properly.

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Applying Eye Drops to Cats

The proper administration of eye medication is critical in helping your cat quickly recover from an eye injury or infection. Gently clean away any debris around your cat's eyes with warm water and a washcloth. Hold the bottle using the thumb and index finger of your dominant hand with the tip pointed downwards. Use the last two fingers of the same hand to pull back the upper eyelid. Place your remaining fingers under the cat's jaw to support the head. The lower eyelid will act as a pouch to receive the drops. DO NOT touch the eye's surface with the applicator. Aiming for the center of the eye, squeeze the desired number of drops onto the eyeball.

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Giving Liquid Medication to Cats

The easiest way to give your cat liquid medication is to mix it in with some canned food. In some cases, this is not possible, and you will have to administer the medication directly into the cat's mouth using a syringe. Before starting, make sure you prepare the syringe with the correct amount of medication. If the medication was refrigerated, you may want to warm it up by holding the syringe tightly in your hand for a minute or two. It may be helpful to have someone assist you the first few times you administer the medication. Try wrapping your cat in a blanket or towel with only its head exposed. Detailed directions for administering the medication are provided in this handout. Make sure you give your cat plenty of praise throughout the procedure and offer a special treat after giving the medication.

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Breeding and Queening Cats

Breeding, pregnancy, and birthing in cats may seem simple, but can have complications. Cats can have multiple litters in a year. It is important to know when your cat may be expecting to give birth so that you can be available to provide assistance if necessary. It is important to know what signs indicate that your cat may be experiencing difficulties delivering the kittens and know when veterinary attention is needed.

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Brushing Your Cat's Teeth

More than half of all cats over the age of three have periodontal disease. Brushing three times a week is the minimum recommendation to help remove plaque and prevent tartar accumulation. In order to be successful at brushing your cat’s teeth, you must make it a positive experience for both of you. Do not use human toothpaste or baking soda. A list of dental products and diets that have been accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Counsel can be found at vohc.org.

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Senior Cat Care - Special Considerations

Several changes occur in the aging cat; they often progress slowly, so it is essential to have your senior cat examined by a veterinarian twice yearly. This is important so that if your cat develops a disease, it can be recognized and treated as early as possible, thereby maintaining her quality of life for as long as possible.

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Chin Acne in Cats

Chin acne in cats is a poorly understood disorder of follicular keratinization (the overproduction of keratin, a protein found in the outer layer of skin). If this excess keratin is trapped in the hair follicle, comedones (blackheads) form. Pustules (pimples) may form if bacteria infect the comedones. The underlying causes are not fully understood but may be associated with excess sebum production, viral infection, immunosuppression, stress, or poor grooming. Treatment options are available and often involve improved hygiene.

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Scratching Behavior in Cats: Various Approaches

Cats scratch and claw for several reasons: scratching serves to shorten and condition the claws, scratching allows an effective, whole body stretch, and cats scratch to mark their territory. There are many approaches to resolving scratching issues.

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Dental Disease in Cats

Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions seen by veterinarians. The most common dental problems seen in cats are gingivitis, periodontal, and tooth resorption. Periodontal disease is a term used to describe infection and associated inflammation of the periodontium and begins with gingivitis. Some cats develop severe oral inflammation called stomatitis. It is believed that cats who develop stomatitis have an extreme reaction to their own oral bacteria and plaque. The best way to prevent tartar build-up is through daily tooth brushing using a pet toothpaste.

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Nutrition - General Feeding Guidelines for Cats

Cats are obligate carnivores and cannot be vegetarian. Through evolution, cats have become dependent on the specific forms of nutrients found only in animal tissue. Feeding your cat a proper diet is one of the most important aspects to help keep them at optimal health. It is important to keep in mind that the nutritional requirements and dietary preferences change over the course of the cat's lifetime. Your veterinary health care team can help you make good-quality diet choices and determine the correct number of calories your cat needs in a day.

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Feline Leukemia Virus Vaccination

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a virus that infects only cats. There is no treatment for FeLV, therefore preventing infection through vaccination is highly recommended. Testing prior to vaccination is needed to ensure the cat is not already infected with FeLV, as it offers no protection to an infected cat. A small few cats may experience a mild reaction to the FeLV vaccine, but the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks.

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Behavior Management Products for Dogs

There are numerous products on the market that have been designed to help prevent undesirable behavior in dogs. Leashes, harnesses, and head halters are needed to keep pets under control, especially when outdoors.

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Why Punishment Should be Avoided

While punishment can be effective at decreasing those behaviors that are undesirable (when applied within 1 to 2 seconds), if not administered properly it can aggravate existing problems and cause new ones.

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Life Skills for Pets: Crate Training and Confinement for Puppies and Dogs

Crate training is useful in many situations, such as providing a safe place when home alone or unsupervised which prevents housetraining mistakes, a safe place to sleep undisturbed, to travel by car or airplane, for medical care and visits to the veterinarian, and for boarding or vacation camp. Starting while your pet is young makes training easier, but most pets can be trained. If your pet shows signs of distress (e.g., prolonged vocalization, eliminating inside the crate, trying to escape, salivation, etc.) while using the training methods provided in this handout consult with your veterinarian.

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Dog Behavior Problems - House Soiling

There are numerous reasons that a dog might soil the house with urine and/or stools. Determining the specific reason is essential for developing a treatment program. Dogs that soil the home continuously or intermittently from the time they were first obtained may not have been properly house-trained.

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Dog Behavior Problems Marking Behavior

Dogs mark by urinating on upright objects. Leaving a scent mark with urine is a normal dog communicative behavior. Marking is most likely to occur on or near new or novel odors, especially the urine left by other dogs.

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Moving with Your Dog

Most dogs seem to take moving in stride, but for some dogs the loss of their familiar home and routine can be upsetting, and settling in to the new home can pose problems for owners and dogs alike. To help your dog adapt to changes in daily routine, begin the changes prior to the move. You can introduce your dog to your new home by showing him around, indoors and outdoors, with a happy voice, treats, and play. New dog-to-other-pet relationships may be based on a wide variety of factors. When introducing your dog into a home with one or more new dogs, it might be best to have the dogs interact with one another on neutral territory on one or more occasions before the move. The initial introduction of your dog to the household cat should be taken slowly and done in a controlled environment, with your dog on leash and a head halter and giving favorite rewards to both. When introducing your dog into a new home with new children and family members, do whatever you can to associate all that is positive in your dog’s day with the new people.

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Dog Behavior and Training - Neutering and Behavior

Most male animals (stallions, bulls, boars, rams, dogs, and tomcats) that are kept for companionship, work, or food production are neutered (castrated) unless they are intended to be used as breeding stock.

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Using Predictability, Scheduling, and Enrichment to Train Your Dog

Every dog has wants and needs, including social interaction, physical exercise, intellectual exercise, and time to rest. When their needs are met predictably and enrichment is consistently available, dogs experience less stress and frustration and may be less likely to develop problematic behaviors.

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Head Halter Training for Dogs

Head halters are commonly used as an alternative to neck control collars and have many advantages. Firstly, they make control easier, requiring less physical effort, so you don't end up battling with your pet or trying to save your shoulders from being pulled out of their sockets when going for a walk like you do when using a flat neck collar.

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Dog Behavior and Training - Training Products - Head Halter Training - Synopsis

The goal of training is to teach your dog a desirable behavior and to associate a command word with that behavior. To be successful, you must first be able to get the pet to exhibit the desired behavior reliably before adding the command.

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Using Predictable Rewards to Train Your Dog

Over the years, a number of useful catch phrases have been used to help describe to pet owners the importance of taking control of their pet and the environment and creating predictability and clarity in their interactions with their pet.

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Dog Behavior and Training - Teaching Calm - Settle and Relaxation Training

Many behavior problems have a component of fear, anxiety or excessive arousal so that retraining cannot begin until a calm, relaxed state can be achieved on cue. Training should focus on both the behavioral response (sit, down, walk, stay on your mat) as well as the emotional state (calm, relaxed).

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Cat Behavior and Training - Crate Training and Travel

Cats are highly attached to territory, and movement away from that secure base is not something that is undertaken lightly! Traveling in cars, planes and other forms of human transportation can be a very stressful experience for all concerned, in part because the cat is no longer in control of its own experience.

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Cat Behavior and Training - Enrichment for Indoor Cats

There are many circumstances in which keeping a cat indoors may be safer for the cat and therefore, arguably, better for the cat. Indoor cats are at lower risk for injuries associated with the outdoor environment (cars, trains, dogs, predators, humans, etc.) and are at far less risk of contracting parasites and infectious diseases such as feline leukemia, feline infectious peritonitis and feline immunodeficiency virus.

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Cat Behavior Problems - Marking and Spraying Behavior

Spraying is the deposition of small amounts of urine on vertical surfaces. In most cases, the spraying cat will back into the area, the tail may quiver, and with little or no crouching, will urinate.

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Cat Behavior and Training - Cat Neutering and Behavior

Most male animals that are kept for companionship, work, or food production (stallions, dogs, tomcats, bulls, rams and boars) are neutered (castrated) unless they are intended to be used as breeding stock.

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Exercise and Your Obese Cat

Losing weight is often a difficult process and animals, like people, often take weeks or months to shed those unwanted pounds. Feeding a prescription weight reduction diet is certainly a good start in a weight loss program for your cat, but it is important to remember that food intake is only one part of the problem.

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Cat Behavior Problems - Nocturnal Activity

Some cats are active at night, or are awake and raring to go very early in the morning. Since many owners are out at work or school during the day, the cat may spend the daytime hours in rest and relaxation, especially if it is the only pet in the household.

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Cat Behavior and Training - Play and Play Toys

The toys that you choose for your cat must take into account the natural behavior of the species. Often the simple ones are the best and ones that offer unpredictable movement, rapid movement and high-pitched sound are likely to provide your cat with hours of entertainment.

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Bringing Home Your New Kitten

Your interaction with your new kitten begins on the ride home. Cats should always be transported in some kind of carrier in the car. By teaching your kitten to ride in a confined location you are providing safety as well as starting a routine that you can maintain for future car rides.

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Kitten Behavior and Training - Play and Investigative Behaviors

Play is a very important part of the feline world and kittens need the opportunity to play in order to learn vital adult skills both for communication and for hunting.

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Socialization and Fear Prevention in Kittens

Socialization is the process during which the kitten develops relationships with other living beings in its environment.

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Housetraining for Kittens and Cats

Learning to eliminate in the chosen area is a crucial skill for pet kittens and cats. Most cats prefer unscented, fine grit clumping style litter, a deep box with at least 3” of digging material, a large area inside the box, and boxes located in quiet areas that are easily accessible. Provide lower-sided litter boxes for kittens and senior cats and multiple litter boxes for multi-cat homes. Doing our best to keep the litter clean and appealing to cats is one of the most important factors in maintaining good elimination habits in our pets. If you find a mistake after the fact, calmly and quietly clean the area, and resolve to better supervise the kitten in the future. Do not punish your kitten or cat for making a mistake. If your cat is ever seen frequently going to and from the litter box, standing or squatting in the litter for prolonged periods, posturing or standing in the litter box and vocalizing, these are all urgent concerns and require immediate veterinary attention.

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Getting Your Puppy Started Off Right

When you bring a new puppy into your home there will inevitably be a period of adjustment. Your goals are to help your puppy to quickly bond to its new family, and to minimize the stress associated with leaving its mother, litter mates, and former home.

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Puppy Behavior and Training - Handling and Food Bowl Exercises

Exercises that use gentle and positive handling can help to increase the enjoyment and decrease any fear associated with handling and restraint. In addition, they provide a means for achieving a relaxed state, which might then be used if the dog begins to get excited or aroused.

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Housetraining for Puppies and Dogs

By using positive reinforcement, consistency, and good supervision it is simple to housetrain most dogs. Start housetraining right away, or even before you bring home a new puppy or dog. Most puppies will pause activity, sniff, and sometimes circle before squatting or posturing to eliminate. Other puppies may act generally restless and agitated when they have a full bladder or bowel. Watch closely for these signs, so you can help your puppy be successful. The goals of housetraining are to have your dog eliminate in the right areas, eliminate immediately when asked, communicate the need to eliminate, eliminate on or off leash, and when you are near a person, and hold bladder and bowels when inside/not in the elimination area. This handout describes easy to follow instructions to help housetrain your puppy. If your previously well housetrained dog begins making mistakes, always consult your veterinarian for guidance.

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Puppy Behavior and Training - Socialization and Fear Prevention

This is the period in a puppy's life where it develops relationships with other living beings and also learns how to behave and act in new experiences. While socialization takes place throughout the first year of life, the first 12 -16 weeks seem to be the most important time for young puppies to learn about their environment.

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Play Biting in Puppies

Although often thought to be a teething behavior, nipping, mouthing and biting in young dogs is generally a form of social play. Teething is more likely to involve gnawing or chewing on household objects.

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Puppy Behavior and Training - Training Basics

You will be training your puppy from the moment you bring it home and start to house train. Puppies start learning from birth. Good breeders begin handling and socialization from birth. Some training can begin as soon as the puppy can open its eyes and walk. When formal training is started at 7 to 8 weeks of age, use methods that rely on positive reinforcement and gentle teaching. Puppies have short attention spans, so training sessions should be brief, but should occur daily.

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Training Your Puppy to Come, Wait, and Follow

Teaching a puppy to 'come' on command is a very difficult but important task. Start early because a puppy that will come when called is safer! In addition, most young puppies do not like to stray too far from their owners.

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Puppy Behavior Training - Training - Sit, Down, Stand and Stay

Using a food treat, hold the food over the dog's nose and slowly move it up and back over the dog's head. As the puppy follows the food with its head it will sit down. Now couple the word 'sit' with the action.

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Cat Behavior and Training - Moving with Your Cat

Some cats seem to take moving in their stride, but for others the loss of their familiar territory can be very traumatic, and settling in to the new home can pose problems for owners and cats alike.

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Recommendations for New Kitten Owners

Adding a new kitten to your family is a lot of fun, but it is also a big responsibility. Your kitten will need to see your veterinarian for vaccinations, deworming, and flea control. Proper nutrition is essential for growth, so choosing the right food is important. Spaying or neutering offers health advantages. All kittens should be microchipped to provide identification in case she escapes.

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Caring for Your Sick Cat

When your cat is being treated for an illness, it is very important that you follow your veterinarian's advice and instructions precisely. Take your cat for re-examination if and when requested. If your cat's condition worsens unexpectedly, contact your veterinarian for advice immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment will provide the best outcome for your cat’s recovery.

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Moving to a New Home with Cats

If you are moving with a cat, there are some things to consider to reduce her anxiety, minimize problems, and help her settle in. Before you move, make sure she has adequate identification (a collar or microchip). Make the move to your new home with your cat in a safe, well-secured container, such as a cat carrier, to avoid danger of escape. On arrival at your new home, leave her in her carrier until a room has been unpacked and set up with familiar objects and furniture. Then make this 'her' room for the initial adjustment period. Cats are very territorial and may be reluctant to accept a new environment as their home. There are things you can do to help them settle in and see their home as 'home.' Give your cat lots of extra attention and petting during this adjustment period.

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Neutering in Cats

Neutering and castration are the common terms used to describe the surgical procedure known scientifically as orchidectomy or orchiectomy during which both testicles are removed in order to sterilize a male cat. Neutering is recommended to prevent urine marking and other territorial behavior including roaming and fighting with other cats that increases the risk of contracting disease. No adverse effects are noted following neutering; however it is important to remember that metabolism does decrease after the procedure, so diet will need to be adjusted accordingly to prevent inappropriate weight gain.

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Spaying in Cats

Spaying is the common term used to describe the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed completely in order to sterilize a female cat. Spaying is recommended to reduce the risk of mammary cancer and to prevent ovarian and uterine cancer, as well as pyometra and unwanted pregnancy. No adverse effects occur following spaying; however it is important to remember that metabolism does decrease after the procedure, so diet will need to be adjusted accordingly to prevent inappropriate weight gain.

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Post-Vaccination Sarcoma in Cats

A sarcoma is a term for any cancer of mesenchymal tissues. Mesenchymal tissues include connective tissues such as skin and muscles, bone, cartilage, peritoneum, and blood vessels. Post-vaccination sarcomas usually involve the fibrous connective tissue under the skin and are often fibrosarcomas. It is important to realize that sarcomas have been associated with injections of other medications in cats, so the condition is more correctly called injection-site sarcoma. A biopsy of the lump and histopathology of the abnormal tissue will confirm that it is a sarcoma as opposed to inflammation or infection.

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Raising Kittens

Most cats care for their kittens with little need for human intervention; however, if they do not, then their caregivers will need to step in. Maintaining a warm environment and ensuring they are receiving enough milk is critical to survival. Weights should be checked daily in the first 2 weeks and any prolonged crying should be investigated thoroughly. Feeding can be supplemented with commercial milk replacer if needed and all kittens can start the weaning process around 4 weeks of age by offering gruel-like kitten food mixed with milk replacer. Rarely milk fever or eclampsia can affect the mother causing spasms and panting around the weaning time and must be addressed by a veterinarian immediately. Kitten diets that have been trialed for growth are recommended. Kittens normally receive temporary immunity through the placenta while in utero and by ingesting their mother’s milk in their first day of life. This immunity starts to fade around 6 weeks of age and vaccination is recommended at that time. Worms are a common affliction in kittens and regular deworming is recommended starting at 2 weeks old. Contact your veterinarian for specific instructions. Commercial over the counter dewormers can be harmful to young kittens.

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Household Hazards - Toxic Hazards for Cats

Many think that because cats are finicky eaters they are poisoned less often than dogs. However, with their curiosity and fastidious grooming, intoxication is, unfortunately, not uncommon. Several factors predispose cats to becoming ill once they have been exposed to even a small amount of a poisonous substance.

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Vaccines for Cats

Veterinarians routinely recommend certain vaccines for all cats (called core vaccines) whereas others are used more selectively according to the cat's environment and lifestyle. Vaccines work by stimulating the body's immune system to recognize and fight a particular microorganism such as a virus, bacteria, or other infectious organism. Depending on the disease, the vaccine will help the body prevent infection or lessen the severity of infection and promote rapid recovery. Vaccination will protect the vast majority of cats but under some circumstances, vaccine breakdowns will occur.

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Vaccination Failures in Cats

There are five primary reasons for vaccination failure. Vaccine inactivation is one reason and is most commonly caused by warming during shipping and handling. In addition, vaccines are not always 100% effective. Cats may also be unhealthy or too young, leading to vaccine failure. Interference by maternal antibodies can lead to the vaccine being blocked. Lastly, cats receiving overwhelming exposure to a virus may have a failure in the effectiveness of the vaccine.

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Creating a Weight Reduction Plan for Cats

Cats who are overweight have an increased risk of many health conditions including diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and some forms of cancer. Your veterinarian can recommend a weight loss plan include a specific weight loss diet and exercise. This article discusses many tips to discourage begging and help promote healthy weight loss in cats who live in a multi-cat household.

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Giving Pills to Dogs

The easiest way to give your dog a pill is to hide the pill in food. If your dog persists in spitting out the pills or if dietary restrictions prevent you from hiding the pills in an appealing treat, you will need to administer the pill directly into your dog's mouth. Make sure you give plenty of praise throughout the procedure and offer a treat or extra playtime after giving the medication. This will make the experience more positive and make it easier to give the medication the next time.

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Giving Injections to Dogs

Certain medical conditions can be controlled by the use of drugs that are only available in an injectable format. In many cases, dog owners are willing and able to administer these medications at home. Most dogs do not seem to mind routine injections which are given in the subcutaneous tissue. This handout provides step by step instructions. Dispose of the used needles and syringes properly.

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Applying Eye Ointments to Dogs

Applying eye ointments to your dog's eye(s) can be a challenging or easy task. The proper administration of eye medications is essential for your dog’s prompt recovery. It is important to use the medication as directed for the full duration and contact your veterinarian if you have problems. The tips and instructions in this handout may make administering your dog’s eye ointment easier.

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Giving Liquid Medication to Dogs

The easiest way to give your dog liquid medication is to mix it in with some canned food. In some cases, this is not possible, and you will have to administer the medication directly into your dog's mouth using a syringe. Before starting, make sure you prepare the syringe with the correct amount of medication. If the medication was refrigerated, you may want to warm it up by holding the syringe tightly in your hand for a minute or two. It may be helpful to have someone assist you the first few times you administer the medication. Detailed directions for administering the medication are provided in this handout. Be sure to offer your dog lots of praise and offer a treat or extra playtime after giving the medication.

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Applying Ointments, Creams, and Lotions on Dogs

Applying topical medications to your pet can sometimes be a challenge. Creams, ointments, and lotions are for external use only. It is important to prevent your dog from licking and swallowing any of these external preparations, as they may contain ingredients that could be harmful if swallowed. A good tip in this case is to apply the product just before feeding your dog or take your dog for a short walk immediately after applying the medication. If you still have trouble keeping your pet from licking the medication, contact your veterinarian and they can supply you with an Elizabethan collar.

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Boarding Your Dog

Many owners say that they will never leave their dog in boarding kennels. However, situations may occur in which you are unable to take your dog with you, and boarding kennels may be your best alternative.

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Wellness Testing for Cats

Regular wellness exams and laboratory testing are designed to detect hidden disease in cats allowing for earlier intervention to correct or manage disease. Typical testing in young or middle aged cats includes complete blood count which assesses the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets; a biochemistry panel that gives information about the organs and endocrine system; and urinalysis that assesses kidney function and can identify inflammation or infection in the urinary tract.

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Wellness Testing for Senior Cats

Senior wellness exams and laboratory testing are designed to detect hidden disease in older cats allowing earlier intervention to correct or manage the disease. Typical testing in senior and geriatric cats includes complete blood count (CBC) that assesses the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets; a biochemistry panel that gives information about the organs and endocrine system; urinalysis that assesses kidney function and can identify inflammation or infection in the urinary tract; thyroid testing to identify hyperthyroidism, and blood pressure assessment to identify hypertension.

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Wellness Testing for Dogs

Regular wellness exams and laboratory testing are designed to detect hidden disease in dogs allowing for earlier intervention to correct or manage the disease. Typical testing in young or middle aged dogs includes: complete blood count, assessing the red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets; a biochemistry panel that gives information about the organs and endocrine system; urinalysis that assesses kidney function and can identify inflammation or infection in the urinary tract; and a thyroid test to screen for hypothyroidism in middle aged dogs or dogs with signs of the disease.

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Wellness Testing for Senior Dogs

Regular wellness exams and laboratory testing are designed to detect hidden disease in senior dogs allowing earlier intervention to correct or manage the disease. Typical testing in senior (and geriatric) dogs includes: complete blood count, assessing the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets; a biochemistry panel that provides information about the organs and endocrine system; urinalysis that assesses kidney function and can identify inflammation or infection in the urinary tract; and a thyroid test to screen for hypothyroidism.

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Are Booster Vaccines Necessary for Dogs?

Primary vaccination is essential in order to prevent the once common puppy diseases that caused high levels of fatality from returning. However, recent research indicates that not all vaccines require yearly boosters. o establish whether boosters are necessary for your pet, blood tests to measure the amount of antibodies (antibody titers) are sometimes recommended. Unfortunately, these tests are often more expensive than revaccination and may be stressful to your dog.

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Breeding for Pet Owners - The Pros and Cons of Breeding Dogs

Breeding dogs is a great responsibility that should not be done just because an owner wants puppies from their beloved dog. There are many potential consequences to the bitch and the puppies that need to be taken into account and prevented if possible, including producing puppies from parents with known heritable problems and medical care of the bitch and puppies. Breeding does not reduce unwanted behavior in male dogs and there is no guarantee that puppies will be anything like the parent, so this is not valid reasons to breed a dog. Many puppies are abandoned at dog shelters or worse because of inappropriate breeding practices. There are usually many abandoned dogs looking for homes that an owner can find what they are looking for through shelters or rescue organizations.

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Estrus and Mating in Dogs

Estrus (heat) begins when a female dog reaches sexual maturity and occurs about twice per year, although it varies from dog to dog. From the beginning of a female’s estrus period, she will be attractive to male dogs, though she will usually not be receptive or allow mating until seven to ten days into her cycle. The time of mating is extremely critical and it is highly recommended to have your female tested to determine the optimal days for breeding.

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Breeding for Pet Owners - Pregnancy in Dogs

Pregnancy in dogs, also called the gestation period, normally ranges from 57-65 days with an average of 63 days. It is important that she be in good physical condition before she is mated. During the last three weeks of pregnancy, your dog's food intake should increase by up to one and a half times the normal level, by feeding smaller meals more frequently.

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Breeding for Pet Owners - Whelping in Dogs

During the last week of pregnancy, the female often starts to look for a safe place for whelping. Some pets appear to become confused, wanting to be with their owners and at the same time wanting to prepare their nest. It is a good idea to get your pet used to the place where you want her to have her puppies well in advance of whelping. Some dogs like the owner to be with them the whole time they are in labor. Others prefer to have their puppies in seclusion.

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Breeding for Dog Owners - Problems at Birth

Although the majority of dogs will give birth without the need for human or veterinary assistance, certain problems can arise which require veterinary attention. It is important to closely monitor your pet during birthing and seek veterinary care if you have any concerns. If intense contractions have been occurring for twenty to thirty minutes without a puppy being born, it is important to contact your veterinarian.

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Breeding for Dog Owners - Caring for Newborn Puppies

For the next two months, even if everything went smoothly with the birth, you have a lot of work to do! After the birthing process, clean up the mother as much as possible without upsetting her using a warm water and washcloth. Do not use any soaps or disinfectants unless instructed to by your veterinarian. Remove any soiled newspaper or bedding from her whelping box. Normally the new mother will spend most of her time with the puppies. It is important to have the mother and puppies examined by your veterinarian within forty-eight hours of birth. The veterinarian will check the mother to make sure there is no infection and that she is producing sufficient milk. The puppies will also be examined to make sure that there are no birth defects such as cleft palates. Any necessary medications or injections will be administered during this visit.

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Breeding for Dog Owners - Caring from Birth to Weaning

During the first three weeks of life, puppies require little care from the owner, provided the mother is doing her job. Weaning describes the transition of the puppy's diet from its mother's milk to the solid growth diet of puppyhood. A good quality, veterinarian-recommended premium diet is essential for the proper development of your puppy. At the time of weaning, they should be fed small amounts often.

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Breeding for Dog Owners - Caring for Mother and Puppies After Weaning

You can place most puppies in their new homes at around eight to ten weeks of age, ideally after ten weeks of age to ensure proper weaning and maximum social development. Treating for worms and first vaccinations should occur before puppies are placed in their new homes.

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Caesarean Sections in Dogs - Post-Operative Instructions

A caesarean section is a major surgery usually performed in an emergency to help deliver puppies. As with any anesthesia, the dog may be sleepy but should be able to eat a high quality diet and nurse puppies within a few hours. The dog should be monitored for fever, abnormal vulvar discharge, and abnormalities at her incision. It is important to ensure that puppies are able to nurse well. If not, or if the dog can not produce enough milk, then commercial milk replacer is recommended. Colostrum ingestion is important for immune protection. If puppies are not nursing within the first 24 hours, then they will need additional veterinary care. Ambient temperature is important in the first 2-4 weeks after birth as puppies cannot regulate their temperature well.

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Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs

Chocolate is toxic to dogs. While rarely fatal, chocolate ingestion often results in significant illness. Chocolate is toxic because it contains the alkaloid theobromine. Theobromine is similar to caffeine and is used medicinally as a diuretic, heart stimulant, blood vessel dilator, and a smooth muscle relaxant.

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TTouch Therapy

TTouch is a form of touch therapy devised and popularized in 1978 by Linda Tellington Jones, an equestrian with a long-standing interest in massage, training, and physical therapy techniques. TTouch is a very simple light massage technique, in which a clockwise circular motion of the fingers is used on the skin of the patient.

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Veterinary Acupuncture

The term acupuncture is from the Latin, "acus" meaning 'needle' and "punctura" meaning 'to prick'. Acupuncture, in its simplest sense, is the treatment of conditions or symptoms by the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the body in order to produce a response.

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Veterinary Magnetic Therapy

Magnetic therapy, more accurately termed magnetic field therapy, is the use of magnetic fields, generated by either permanent magnets or pulsed electromagnetic fields, for treatment of medical conditions. Magnets used for treatment purposes come in many different sizes and strengths, and duration of treatment varies with the type of magnet and condition being treated.

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Dog Behavior and Training - Cleaning Ears

Most dogs' ears are a lot larger and their ear canals are much longer than ours are. They are certainly a lot more sensitive. We usually only need to clean them when there is a problem; however at this point they may already be sore, so that the dog learns that handling around the ears is painful and tries to avoid it.

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Airplane Travel With Your Dog

Having your dog accompany you during travel may add enjoyment to your trip. It is important to keep your dog's safety in mind when traveling, so be sure to check with the airline well in advance of your trip. For pets that are too large to travel in the cabin, you have two options: checked luggage or manifest cargo. Take direct flights whenever possible and try to avoid connections and layovers. Have your dog examined by your veterinarian in advance of the trip. Flight requirements may include written proof of certain vaccinations, blood tests, or anti-parasitic treatment that has been performed within a specified time period. Your dog's travel carrier will be its home for much of your trip, so it is important to choose the right carrier. By applying a few common sense rules, you can keep your traveling dog safe and sound.

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Road Trips and Car Travel With Your Dog

A successful road trip with a dog begins long before the day of travel. If you have a small dog, teach him that his carrier is a great everyday place to hang out. For larger dogs, there are several well-designed doggy seat belts for restraint in the back seat. Gather your dog’s medical documents to take with you and be sure to have your dog wear identification during travel. With some advance planning, attention to detail, and consultation with your veterinarian, road-tripping with your dog can be as “smooth as silk”!

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Degenerative Joint Disease in Dogs

Degenerative joint disease is arthritis caused by deterioration and degeneration of tissues lining joints. Treatment includes regular gentle exercise, anti-inflammatory drugs and other medications, omega fatty acids, chondroprotectants, and possibly other nutraceuticals. Emerging therapies include rehabilitation therapy, acupuncture, and stem cell or platelet rich plasma therapies. Maintaining your dog’s weight can help prevent degenerative joint disease.

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Gastrostomy Tube Feeding in Dogs

Gastrostomy tubes are placed through the skin of the abdomen into the stomach to enable long-term nutrition in dogs that either refuse to eat or are unable to chew and swallow food. A special liquid diet or homemade mixture liquefied with water will be recommended by your veterinarian. Step-by-step instructions are provided. The decision to remove the tube will be determined by your veterinarian.

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African Grey Parrots - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into the needs of different bird species. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Amazon Parrots - General

The colorful Amazon parrot (Amazona sp.) is one of the most common of all the pet parrots kept in captivity. They originate from Mexico, Central America, South America, and the adjacent islands of the West Indies.

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Amazon Parrots - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Veterinary Care for Your Bird - Annual Exam

New birds should be examined by an avian veterinarian within the first couple of days after purchase or adoption. Pet birds should receive routine annual veterinary examinations. A physical examination allows a veterinarian to pick up subtle signs of disease before they are obvious. From the time you walk into the exam room, your veterinarian will observe your bird in his cage and note his attitude, posture, feathering, vocalizations, and physical condition. Your bird will then be gently but securely restrained in a towel to prevent injury and physically examined. Your veterinarian will discuss the need for testing with you depending on the findings of the physical examination. Tests, including blood tests and fecal analysis, are performed routinely on apparently healthy birds to monitor the current state of health of the bird. The specific tests your veterinarian suggests will depend on your bird’s age, size, species, and health status.

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Bathing Birds

Bathing is very important for the proper maintenance of feathers. The dry air in our homes created by central heating and air conditioning is not conducive to the maintenance of healthy feathers and skin, so pet birds should be encouraged to bathe at least three to four times a week. This handout provides helpful tips and safety precautions for bathing your bird.

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Beak and Nail Care in Birds

Elongated beak and/or toenails are reasons for veterinary care in all pet birds. Beaks should not be trimmed regularly unless performed by an avian veterinarian. Toenail trimming may be done at home, but only when taught by an experienced bird breeder/owner or avian veterinarian.

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Budgies - General

The budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulates), also referred to as a parakeet or more commonly a budgie, is perhaps the most popular pet bird worldwide. This beautiful, small bird originates from the drier regions of Australia.

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Budgies - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds' different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water. Different species of birds often require different foods. Poor nutrition is a common reason for many health problems in birds.

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Cage Hygiene in Birds

Cleaning a bird cage should be a weekly routine. Since food particles and fecal material can harbor and entice bacterial and fungal growth, cage cleaning is extremely important to maintain a healthy environment for your bird. Soap and water make excellent cleaning solutions. Some materials, such as wood, wicker, and rope are impossible to disinfect and, therefore, should be replaced regularly.

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Canaries - General

The canary is one of the most popular pet birds (second only to the budgie). Canaries are known for their good nature, attractive plumage, and remarkable singing ability. The canary is relatively easy to care for but do require regular, routine veterinary health check-ups.

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Canaries - Feeding

Nutrition is commonly neglected with pet birds. Pet canaries should be fed a well-balanced and varied diet at all times. Several types of commercially formulated pelleted diets in various colors, shapes, and sizes have been developed to meet all birds' nutritional needs.

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Cockatiels - General Information

Cockatiels make excellent first birds for families. Larger than budgies and smaller than larger parrots, these entertaining birds are easy to maintain and provide endless hours of entertainment and companionship. They arebeautiful flyers and enjoy lots of activity and play. Cockatiels love to chew; therefore, providing bird-safe toys will easily distract them from unwanted destructive chewing. They may be adopted from shelters or purchased from a pet store or a reputable breeder. They require annual, routine veterinary health check-ups to help prevent disease and aid in the maintenance of a long-lasting, healthy relationship between you and your bird.

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Cockatiels - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Vaccination Failures in Dogs

There are five primary reasons for vaccination failure. Vaccine inactivation is one reason and is most commonly caused by warming during shipping and handling. In addition, vaccines are not always 100% effective. Dogs may also be unhealthy or too young, leading to vaccine failure. Interference by maternal antibodies can lead to the vaccine being blocked.

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Vaccines for Dogs

A vaccine is a preparation of either killed or altered microorganisms that is administered into the body. Depending on your locality, some infections may be more or less likely. The range of vaccines available includes rabies, distemper, adenovirus/infectious canine hepatitis, parvovirus, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, coronavirus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Lyme disease, and canine influenza.

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Microchipping Your Dog

The purpose of microchips is to provide a form of permanent identification. They are tiny, about the size of a grain of rice, and contain a unique identification number. Insertion is fast and painless. The microchip reader will detect the electronic code embedded in the chip and display the identification number on its screen. The registration database is then checked for this identification number (either online or by telephone), and the pet owner’s contact information is retrieved.

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Cockatoos - General Information

Cockatoos are a suitable family pet for families with elementary school-aged and older children. Their jumpy nature and strong bite make them inappropriate for families with young children. Owning a cockatoo can be like having a small child. These birds are high maintenance both physically and emotionally, as they demand a lot of attention and a great deal of time outside their cages. Without adequate attention, cockatoos sometimes become excessively boisterous and are potentially destructive. Cockatoos need to chew; therefore, providing a continuous supply of non-toxic wood or cardboard bird-safe toys will afford it many hours of entertainment and likely save household items from being destroyed. Cockatoos may be adopted from shelters or purchased from pet stores or reputable breeders. They require annual, routine veterinary health check-ups to help prevent disease and aid in the maintenance of a long-lasting, healthy relationship between you and your bird.

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Neutering in Dogs

Neutering and castration are the common terms used to describe the surgical procedure during which both testicles are removed in order to sterilize a male dog. There are several pros and cons to neutering; however, the overall consensus at this time is that neutering will increase the lifespan of a dog. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. A rest period of 5-10 days is needed for recovery after surgery.

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Cockatoos - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water.

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Pain Management for Dogs

Many dogs will instinctively hide their pain as a survival mechanism which in the past, led well-meaning experts to presume that dogs did not feel pain the same way humans do. Although the signs may be subtle, careful observation of a dog’s everyday behaviors will often reveal pain when it is present. These signs may include changes in behavior, mobility, and appetite. Common pain medications include NSAIDs, opioids, and other therapeutics. Your veterinarian will choose the appropriate drugs based on your dog’s specific needs.

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Common Conditions of Pet Birds

Pet birds often become ill when they are not cared for or fed appropriately. Birds can develop infections with bacteria such as Chlamydia psittaci and parasites such as Giardia. They also commonly suffer from reproductive problems, such as egg binding and reproductive tumors. Many feather-pick when psychologically stressed or sexually frustrated. Birds on all-seed, high-fat diets may become obese and develop fatty liver syndrome. Older birds may develop cloacal papillomas or cancer. Your veterinarian familiar with birds will formulate an appropriate diagnostic and treatment plan if your pet bird becomes ill.

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Conures - General

There are numerous species of conures (Aratinga and Pyrrhura sp. and others) but only a few are commonly kept as pets. They are native throughout Mexico, Central and South America. Members of this group of birds are considered small to medium sized birds and are characterized by their long slender bodies, long tapered tail and large beak.

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Conures - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Finches: General

Finches are small, active birds belonging to the order of Passeriformes. Known as song birds, these are small birds with various color formations and have a variety of chirping vocalizations.

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Feeding Finches

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving both from heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and from increased research into birds’ different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Hand-Feeding Baby Birds

Hand-raised babies usually make better pets, as they have been completely socialized with humans. Hand-feeding is a job best left for the experienced bird breeder or aviculturist. If you’re considering hand-feeding a baby bird, you should contact your local bird breeder or veterinarian for help. A chick may be removed from the parents any time before weaning, but many suggest leaving the babies with the parents for up to 3 weeks. Precise temperature and humidity is essential for optimum growth of newly hatched birds. Generally, the temperature can be lowered by one degree every 2-3 days as feathering progresses. If you are raising a chick, always monitor your bird for signs of overheating or chilling. Poor growth or poor digestion (delayed crop emptying) may indicate poor health (including presence of gastrointestinal tract infections), improper consistency/mixing of hand feeding formula, improper temperature of formula, or improper environmental temperature and humidity. There are numerous commercially available hand-feeding formulas for baby birds. All food must be prepared fresh for every feeding. Food retained from one feeding to another is an ideal medium for the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast. Any food prepared or heated in a microwave oven must be mixed thoroughly to ensure that the food’s temperature is uniform. Food that is too hot may cause severe burns to the crop. Food that is too cold may be rejected by the babies or may slow down digestion. The frequency of feeding for young birds is greater than that of older birds. The best indication of a healthy, growing chick is a good, strong feeding response at every feeding, with the crop emptying between feedings, and the regular production of droppings (feces). Weight gain should be monitored and recorded at the same time each day using a scale that weighs in grams with 1-gram increments to detect subtle increases or decreases. As a bird gets older and develops a full complement of feathers, it should be encouraged to wean off formula and to eat more on its own. Birds should be offered a variety of foods, including formulated pelleted diets, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables, at this time to encourage their exploration and experimentation. As this food introduction continues, hand-feeding may be withheld at certain times. All feeding utensils must be cleaned, disinfected, and dried thoroughly between feedings.

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Household Hazards and Dangers to Birds

Birds are naturally mischievous and if not properly supervised, will get into many predicaments. It is crucial that you bird proof your home. The bird's cage is its house and the confines of your home represent the bird's environment.

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Raising Puppies

Most dogs care for their puppies with little need for human intervention; however, if they do not, then their caregivers will need to step in. Maintaining a warm environment and ensuring puppies are receiving enough milk is critical to survival. Weights should be checked daily in the first 2 weeks and any prolonged crying should be investigated thoroughly. Feeding can be supplemented with commercial milk replacer if needed and all puppies can start the weaning process around 4 weeks of age by offering gruel-like puppy food mixed with milk replacer. Milk fever or eclampsia can affect the mother causing spasms and panting around the weaning time and must be addressed by a veterinarian immediately. Puppy diets meeting AAFCO requirements for growth are recommended. Puppies normally receive temporary immunity from ingesting their mother’s milk in their first day of life. This immunity starts to fade around 6 weeks of age and vaccination is recommended at that time. Worms are a common affliction in puppies and regular deworming is recommended starting at 2 weeks old. Contact your veterinarian for specific recommendations. Commercial over the counter dewormers can be harmful to young puppies.

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Housing Large Birds

In general, the bigger the cage, the better. A rectangular stainless-steel cage, is preferable and one that is longer than it is tall, but tall enough to ensure a bird has room to move up and down without hitting its tail on anything. All-metal cages are the most practical to keep clean. Bars on the cage must be close enough together to prevent the bird from getting its head or legs stuck between the bars. Perches that are easily cleaned or replaced and of varying diameters are best. Perches that are chewed up and splintered need to be replaced as birds destroy them. Soft, braided rope perches that are easy to grasp are another great option for pet birds. Large birds should be provided with stainless-steel dishes, as they are indestructible, easy to clean, and attach securely to the side of the cage. Pet birds need daily psychological stimulation and entertainment. There are numerous commercially available foraging and puzzle toys designed to engage and entertain birds for hours. For large birds, toys should not have snaps, clasps, bell clappers, open chain links, easily removable or broken parts, glass, or extraneous loose fibers that birds may chew or swallow or that could wrap around a toe or foot. Toys should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and rinsed thoroughly.

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Introducing a New Pet Bird

Contrary to popular belief, pet birds not raised with other birds typically bond to their owners and are unlikely to want to live with another new bird. If you feel your bird is lonely or bored, first consider providing more enrichment in the form of safe toys and entertainment. If you decide you want to introduce another bird into your household, be sure you are ready to take on the work of caring for more than one bird and be certain to introduce him slowly. All new birds should be checked by a veterinarian before exposing the original bird to a new one, and the new bird should be quarantined in a separate, isolated room within the house for 30-45 days. Some birds never accept new birds in their territories. Consult your veterinarian if you are experiencing problems.

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Lead Poisoning in Birds

Lead is a common household hazard for birds. Due to their curious, explorative nature, house birds can be exposed to lead around the house. Lead causes heavy metal toxicity, affecting the blood, nervous system, and gastrointestinal system. Lead poisoning can be fatal if not treated.

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Leg Bands and Identification for Birds

Leg bands are used as a form of identification for some pet birds. They are typically placed on the bird's foot when it is a baby. Leg bands may get caught in the cage , on toys or on fabric causing serious damage to the foot or leg.

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Lories and Lorikeets - General

Lories and Lorikeets are small to medium size, energetic parrots. They come from southeastern Asia, Papua New Guinea, Australia, and Polynesia. They are fun-loving, social birds with a variety of brightly colored variations. Lories and Lorikeets can be high-maintenance pets and require a specific type of diet.

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Lovebirds - General

The Peach-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis) is the largest and most commonly kept of the nine species of lovebirds. This small, colorful, short-tailed parrot originates from Africa. They are incredibly inquisitive, playful and possess a delightful, spirited sassiness.

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Lovebirds - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Macaws - Feeding

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Macaws - General

Macaws (Ara sp.) are the largest members of the parrot family. These magnificent, vividly colored birds originate from Mexico, Central and South America. They have a long tapered tail, strong body and large powerful beak. Macaws are intelligent, playful and inquisitive.

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Mynah Birds - General

Mynah birds (Gracula sp. and Acridotheres tristis) originate from Africa, India and Southeast Asia and are best known for their ability to talk and to mimic any and all sounds.

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Creating a Weight Reduction Plan for Dogs

Dogs who are overweight have an increased risk of many health conditions including diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and some forms of cancer. Your veterinarian can recommend a weight loss plan include a specific weight loss diet and exercise. This article discusses many tips to discourage begging and help promote healthy weight loss in dogs.

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Feeding Pet Mynah Birds

Mynah birds eat a variety of foods and have relatively short digestive tracts when compared with other parrots. Mynah birds are not seed-eaters in the wild and are omnivorous. Provide your mynah bird with bite-sized pieces of food. Mynah birds are very sensitive to iron levels in their food; therefore, they must be offered pelleted food that is low in iron and certain fruits and vegetables must fed sparingly or not at all. Mynah birds may occasionally enjoy pinky mice or insects such as mealworms, wax worms, crickets and other insects Mynah birds do not require grit or gravel for proper digestion.

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Veterinary Care - New Bird Visit

Many bird owners are surprised to learn that all pets, including their birds, need an initial visit by an avian veterinarian and at least an annual checkup (many veterinarians recommend checkups at least twice a year, to allow for early detection and treatment of potentially life-threatening diseases.)

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Nursing Care for Sick Pet Birds

While sick birds can occasionally be treated by their owners at home, any bird showing signs of illness should be examined by a veterinarian. Birds that are gravely ill will require hospitalization, while those that are still eating or that are only mildly affected may be treated by their owners under their veterinarian’s direction. For your bird to have a good chance of recovery, medication(s) must be administered as directed. Most pets recover faster when kept at the upper end of their normal environmental temperature. If your bird is ill, do not change his normal day/light cycle. Sick pets need extra calories to fight illness and recover, and cage rest is often best while the bird is recuperating. A bird that is ill should be isolated from other pets, preferably in a separate room. While not often the case, some bird diseases can be transmitted to owners.

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Perches for Birds

Birds use perches for standing, climbing, playing, rubbing, cleaning their beaks, chewing, and entertainment. Perches should vary in size so birds can firmly and comfortably grip or grasp them. Birds can get sore feet if the perch diameter is the same all the time. Perches not only serve as a place for birds to stand on but also as objects on which to chew. Wood branches or natural wood make the best perches because their varying diameters allow birds to distribute pressure to different areas on the bottom of their feet. Natural manzanita wood perches are commercially available for birds. Branches from non-toxic trees outside can also be used as perches. Perches that are chewed up and splintered need to be replaced as birds destroy them. Sandpaper perch covers are not recommended. They can cause irritation and sores to the bottom of birds’ feet. Ropes, such as hemp or untreated cotton, also make great perches. Soft, braided rope perches are a comfortable option for pet birds, especially if they are older and have arthritic feet. Natural hemp or cotton rope provides a soft surface, is easy to grip and is great for birds to chew on. Concrete perches should not be the only perches used in bird cages as they can be abrasive to the bottoms of bird feet, resulting in irritation and sore formation. Plastic perches should not be used. Larger birds may chew and splinter plastic into sharp pieces. Perches should be cleaned every time they are dirty.

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Pigeons and Doves - General

The domestic pigeon (family Columbidae) includes over 300 breeds, all descending from the Rock Dove (Columbia livia). They originated in Eurasia, but are now found all over the world.

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Feeding Pigeons and Doves

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Senior Dog Care - Special Considerations

Senior dogs are in the stage of life where aging begins to affect every organ system. Some organs wear out faster or are more susceptible to cumulative damage than others, so certain observations are critical. While it is true that old age is not a disease, older dogs do merit special attention, including routine health exams twice yearly. This is important so that if your dog develops a disease, it can be recognized and treated as early as possible, thereby maintaining his quality of life for as long as possible.

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Recognizing the Signs of Illness in Pet Birds

In the wild, a bird will endeavor to uphold a strong appearance when sick. This is called, survival of the fittest. By the time a pet bird actually shows an owner that it is unwell, it has likely been sick for some time. Many things contribute to ill health. This handout provides bird owners a categorized list of signs that should alert them that their bird is sick.

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Plants That are Safe for Birds

Many birds naturally eat plants as part of their diet. Birds will chew on and possibly consume plants in the course of play and curiosity. Some plants will just make a bird sick while others can kill them. This handout catalogues many of the indoor and outdoor plants that are considered safe for birds.

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Sexual Behavior in Birds

There are many different behaviors witnessed by owners of birds that are associated with sexual maturity and hormone fluctuations. At certain times of the year, birds are under the powerful influence of sex hormones and will behave instinctively in distinct ways that you may not have witnessed before. The behaviors will vary with species and individuals.

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Testing and Diagnostics for Sick Pet Birds

Wellness testing, performed routinely on apparently healthy birds, screens for underlying, inapparent problems. Veterinarians also use test results in conjunction with physical examination findings and the owner’s account of the bird’s history to diagnose illnesses. Blood tests include the complete blood count and chemistry profile. Other tests your veterinarian may use to assess your bird’s health and diagnose disease include Gram’s stain, culture and sensitivity testing, parasitology, X-rays, laparoscopic surgery, cytology, histopathology, virology, and genetic (PCR) testing. Post-mortem examination after a bird dies may be recommended to determine the cause of death.

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Toucans and Toucanets - General

There are approximately 35 (or more) species of toucans and toucanets, including the smaller, slender aracari. Their most outstanding feature is the large, elongated, hollow beak that varies in coloration from black to multicolored. Hand-raised babies that are well-socialized make charming, affectionate pets, whereas wild toucans are very challenging to tame. They require a large horizontal cage with lots of perches, as they are very active, curious, and enjoy hopping from perch to perch. However, they can be aggressive with other birds and are known to occasionally kill and eat smaller species, such as canaries and finches. Toucans and toucanets require regular, routine veterinary health check-ups.

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Toucans and Toucanettes - Feeding

Toucans and toucanettes have a high moisture diet and a relatively short digestive tract, which make for a very quick transit time of food through their digestive tract. Hemochromatosis, or iron storage disease, in toucans and toucanettes has long been suspected to be related to high dietary iron. Current dietary recommendations are for diets low in iron. In addition to a low-iron containing pellet, toucans and toucanettes should be offered a large variety of diced fruits. Fresh clean water must be available at all times.

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Plants That are Toxic to Birds

Many birds naturally eat plants as part of their diet. Some birds will chew on and possibly consume plants out of curiosity or during play. Many toxic plants will just make a bird sick if they ingest them, but some can kill them. Fortunately, rather than ingesting plants, most birds shred and play with plants with which they come in contact. This handout catalogues many of the indoor and outdoor plants that are considered to be potentially toxic to birds.

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Toys for Birds

In the wild, most birds forage for food for hours at a time, and when they are not resting, they are playing. These activities occupy huge amounts of the bird's day. In captivity, they have food served to them on a silver platter with no effort or work.

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Transporting Your Bird - Car and Air Travel

Birds can be great travelers. Most tolerate cars and airplanes very well, and some actually love the excitement of travel; however, some birds may be very stressed by travel. It is not safe (for you or your bird) for your bird to be roaming freely in the car while you are driving. Airlines vary in their regulations for travel with birds. You must contact the airline you are using to determine their specific policies regarding pet travel. Tranquilizers or sedatives should not be used during travel due to potential risk of reaction. Before making any travel plans, contact the consulate or border authorities of the country you are planning to enter to determine the kind of health certificates and medical testing your bird will need prior to travel. Your bird will likely need a physical examination and written health certificate from a federally accredited veterinarian within a certain number of days of travel, depending on the airlines and on the destination.

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Wild Baby Birds

During the spring and summer, it is not unusual to encounter a wild baby bird on the ground. Often, people respond by taking the little "orphan" home before they figure out what to do with it. This handout provides important information should you encounter a wild baby bird.

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Wing Clipping

The purpose of clipping a bird's wings is not to prevent flight completely but to ensure the bird is unable to achieve or sustain upward flight and to prevent escape, unwanted roaming, and exposure to dangerous situations. After a wing clip, the idea is for birds to be able to flutter to the floor safely. Typically, the primary feathers are trimmed about half way from the base of the feather to the tip. The secondary feathers should not be clipped, and no feathers should be clipped shorter than midway from base to tip. While some people prefer the more cosmetic appearance when the outermost 1-2 feathers are left untouched, many small birds, like budgies and cockatiels, may fly when these feathers are left at the end. Newly growing pin or blood feathers (that retain blood in the shaft until the feather matures) will bleed quite profusely if accidentally cut. Before attempting wing clipping yourself, have your veterinarian show you exactly how to clip and the correct feathers to cut.

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Spaying in Dogs

Spaying is the common term used to describe the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed completely in order to sterilize a female dog. There are several pros and cons to spaying currently under scientific scrutiny; however, the overall consensus at this time is that spaying will increase the lifespan of a dog. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. A rest period of 5-10 days is needed for recovery after surgery.

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Birth Control for Dogs

Dogs can be bred when they are in heat. Depending on the size and breed of the dog, heats can begin as early as 4 months and can occur as frequently as every 4 months. Spaying a dog either through ovariohysterectomy or ovariectomy is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy. Spaying also negates false pregnancies and pyometra and reduces the risk of mammary cancer. Medications exist to control the heat cycle but they carry the risk of serious, potentially fatal side effects. There are no drugs approved for use in the US or Canada.

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Tapeworm Infection in Dogs

Tapeworms are parasites that infect the gastrointestinal tract of dogs, other animals, and humans. Several types of tapeworms are known to infect pets, but the most common species observed in dogs is Dipylidium caninum, which is transmitted through fleas. Risk factors, clinical signs, treatment, and prevention are explained in this handout. Other, less common types of tapeworms that affect dogs and humans are also covered.

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Meyer's Parrots: General

Meyer's parrots are generally small- to medium-sized parrots with a very outgoing personality. They are very colorful and playful parrots. A hand-tamed Meyer's parrot makes a wonderful family pet.

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Feeding Meyer's Parrots

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Blood Feathers in Birds

Blood feathers are a normal maturation process for all feathers on birds. When feathers first erupt from the skin they contain blood. Injury to the feather as it grows may cause the blood feather to become broken causing blood loss that at times may require emergency treatment by an avian veterinarian.

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Uropygial or Preening Gland in Birds

The uropygial gland (preen/preening gland or oil gland) is a normal part of most bird's anatomy. The preen oil is formed by the gland and helps coat a bird's feathers. Infections and tumors may affect the uropygial gland.

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Quaker or Monk Parakeets - General

These birds are commonly referred to as Quaker Parrots, Quaker Parakeets or Monk Parakeets. There are 4 subspecies. They are native to southern South America including parts of Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia and Uruguay, but have established feral colonies in the United States.

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Feeding Quaker or Monk Parakeets

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water.

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Feeding Senegal Parrots

Our knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. As with all other animals, birds need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

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Senegal Parrots - General

The Senegal parrot is a lovely, gregarious, chattery bird. There are 3 subspecies. They are native to a wide range of central West Africa. Members of this group of birds are small to medium in size.

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Molting in Birds

Feathers insulate to maintain body temperature and protect birds from the elements and play an important role in aerodynamics and flying. Feathers need to be removed or fall out to stimulate new feather growth. Therefore, to keep itself in fine feather, a bird needs to molt each year to get rid of old or damaged feathers. In the wild, molting corresponds with the change of seasons or the changing day length. Other factors influencing the timing of molting include temperature and available nutrition, as well as the bird’s general health and reproductive state. Pet birds are not exposed to seasonal light and daylight length fluctuations in our homes that would mimic seasons. Pet birds’ exposure to varied light cycles may lead to irregular, incomplete, long or short molts.

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Annual Veterinary Visit for Reptiles

Many reptile owners are surprised to learn that all pets, including reptiles, need at least annual checkups. A number of reptile veterinarians actually recommend checkups at least twice a year. Depending upon the species of reptile, the testing performed, and the temperament of your pet, some of these tests may require short-acting sedatives or gas anesthesia to minimize an animal’s stress level. Every visit starts with a thorough physical examination, during which your veterinarian will record your pet's weight, general appearance, and activity level. Your veterinarian will also ask you about your pet’s recent history and evaluate its diet. Just as your own regular medical visit includes blood testing, so does a checkup for a reptile. Microscopic examination of the feces allows detection of internal parasites. Using X-rays, your veterinarian can examine your pet's body for abnormalities in the size, shape, and position of body organs, screen for masses such as tumors, look for abnormal fluid accumulation, and check the bones and joints.

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Annual Veterinary Visit for Small Mammals

Many owners of small mammals are surprised to learn that all pets need at least an annual checkup. Exotic pet veterinarians typically recommend check-ups at least once a year for young, healthy pets and twice a year for geriatric animals. During a check-up your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic testing, including blood testing, fecal analysis, microbiological testing, and radiography. While most of diagnostic tests can be performed on awake animals, depending on the species and temperament of the pet, some exotic pet veterinarians recommend performing these tests under short-acting gas anesthesia.

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Chinchillas - Feeding

This handout provides basic guidelines for feeding a pet chinchilla a healthy and balanced diet tailored to the specific needs of chinchillas.

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Chinchillas: Housing

The cage should allow the chinchilla to move around a lot, as they are very active, agile, and acrobatic animals. Multilevel cages, similar to those designed for ferrets, work well, as long as there are no areas where a chinchilla could get its limbs or feet caught. Most owners house one or two pets in a cage; often the two pets are mates. Chinchillas require a dust bath for normal grooming. Cages should be emptied and cleaned at least weekly with soap and water.

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Chinchillas - Owning

Chinchillas can make fun, enjoyable pets. The chinchilla is a rodent closely related to the guinea pig. They originate from South America where they live in the Andes Mountains.

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Chinchillas - Problems

Chinchillas are generally hardy animals but can have several unique problems; understanding them will help you care for your pet and manage potential health problems.

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Feeding Ferrets

Ferrets are carnivores and cannot handle a diet containing more than 4% fiber. A good quality ferret diet should contain 32-40% protein and 10-15% fat. There are several good commercial dry foods for ferrets.

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Ferrets - Housing

Due to their well-deserved reputation as escape artists, ferrets should be housed in a cage that can be securely closed and/or locked. They also need a safe, "ferret-proofed" play area or room where they can explore and investigate while supervised.

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Owning a Ferret

Ferrets are generally good-natured, inquisitive, playful animals that enjoy the company of humans. They can make great pets! This handout provides some basic facts about ferrets and what you need to know about keeping one as a pet.

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Ferrets - Problems

Ferrets have several unique problems; understanding these problems will allow you to better care for your pet and minimize future health care problems.

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Feeding Guinea Pigs

The preferred basic diet for guinea pigs is unlimited amounts of Timothy or other low-calcium hay, supplemented with smaller amounts of a commercial, high-fiber, Timothy-hay based guinea pig pellets. The diet should be supplemented with a variety of fresh, well-washed, leafy greens or colored vegetables; especially those high in vitamin C. Guinea pigs cannot manufacture their own vitamin C, therefore it is important that guinea pigs receive a vitamin C tablet or liquid vitamin C directly by mouth every day. Provide fresh clean water in a sipper bottle and check the tube for blockages each day.

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Owning Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs live, on average, 5-6 years; although some can live to 8-10 years of age. Their teeth grow continuously, throughout life, and it is critical that they eat grass hay, such as Timothy hay, every day to help them wear down their teeth as they grow. Young guinea pigs display a unique behavior called popcorning when they are happy, in which they jump straight up in the air and let out squeals of delight. Guinea pigs reach sexual maturity at around 3-4 months of age; therefore, if young males and females are housed together, they should be separated by this age, otherwise they are likely to breed. The average gestation period for guinea pigs is 63 days. If gestation continues over 70 days, the guinea pig should be seen immediately by a veterinarian, and it is likely that the entire litter will be stillborn.

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Hedgehogs - Feeding

A pet hedgehog’s diet should mainly consist of high-quality hedgehog food mixed with high-quality, low-fat cat food. The diet may be supplemented with certain insects, fruits, and vegetables, which are listed in this handout. Foods that should be avoided are also listed. Hedgehogs have a propensity for obesity if their food intake is not monitored or controlled.

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Hedgehogs - Housing

Hedgehogs are active animals and require lots of room to move around and exercise. They are also very good climbers, so it is important to choose an enclosure that your hedgehog cannot escape from. Other factors include temperature control, a respite from bright light, and appropriate bedding and toys that are safe for this unique pet.

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Hedgehogs - Owning

Hedgehogs can make interesting, somewhat challenging, yet fun and enjoyable pets. They are nocturnal mammals whose entire backs are blanketed with spines like a porcupine. They like to stay active and are skilled at climbing, digging, and even swimming. As with any pet, hedgehogs require a high-quality diet and routine veterinary care.

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Hedgehogs - Problems

Hedgehogs can have several unique problems, including cancer, dental disease, obesity, and foreign bodies. It is important for an owner to understand what these problems are so veterinary care can be provided to their hedgehog when needed and in a timely manner.

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Feeding Iguanas

Iguanas are herbivorous, meaning they eat plants. Most of their diet should be dark green leafy vegetables, with less than 20% of the diet as fruits. In general, foods comprised of large amounts of animal-based protein, such as crickets, mealworms, pinky mice, tofu, and hard boiled eggs, are too high in protein for iguanas to eat frequently and should be offered as less than 5% of the adult iguana’s total diet. The amount and type of supplements required by iguanas is controversial and somewhat age-dependent. Most veterinarians recommend lightly sprinkling a growing iguana’s food every other day (4-5 times per week) with calcium powder (calcium carbonate or gluconate), without vitamin D or phosphorus that has been specifically formulated for reptiles. Most veterinarians recommend that young iguanas receive a multivitamin supplement containing vitamin D twice a week. Opinions vary regarding the nutritional needs of captive iguanas, and our knowledge in the subject is continually expanding based on new dietary studies in reptiles. Check with your veterinarian for specific nutritional needs for your pet iguana.

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Housing Pet Iguanas

As an iguana grows, it must be moved to a larger enclosure, with accommodation for both horizontal and vertical movement. Glass or Plexiglas® enclosures with good ventilation are ideal. The cage bottom should be easy to disinfect and keep clean, with a screened top to prevent your pet from escaping, while still allowing some ventilation. A source of heat and UV light must be provided for iguanas. All reptiles require a heat source, such as a ceramic heat-emitting bulb, in their tanks to provide warmth. Ideally, the cage should be set up so that a heat gradient is established, with the tank warm on one and cooler on the other. The cage temperature should be monitored closely. For UV light to be effective, it must reach the pet directly, without being filtered out by glass or plastic between the pet and the bulb. The bulb should be approximately a foot away from the animal and be on for 10-12 hours per day, mimicking a normal daylight cycle.

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Iguanas - Owning

The common green iguana is a large arboreal (lives in trees and bushes) lizard form Central and South America. They are herbivores (plant eaters). They have a long tail (used as an effective whip to defend itself) and a row of spines running down their back.

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Iguanas - Problems

Iguanas have several unique disease problems; understanding these problems will allow you to better care for your pet and minimize future health care problems.

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Veterinary Care: New Reptile Visit

Yearly health examination for all reptiles is highly recommended. Since reptiles are excellent at hiding symptoms illness, it takes an experienced reptile veterinarian to assess the true health of your pet reptile. Blood tests, fecal examinations and/or radiographs may be performed during the health visit.

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New Small Mammal Veterinary Visit

Many owners of rodents, sugar gliders, and hedgehogs are surprised to learn that all pets need an initial examination by a veterinarian and at least an annual check-up. Many veterinarians who treat exotic small animals recommend check-ups at least twice a year to allow for early detection and treatment of potentially life-threatening diseases. During this visit, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and various diagnostic tests, such as blood work, fecal analysis, microbial testing, and X-rays, to determine your pet's state of health and to see if your pet might be harboring any diseases that require treatment.

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Prairie Dogs - Feeding

In the wild, prairie dogs tend to eat grasses, plants, and leaves. As captive pets, it is essential to feed a diet that approximates what they eat in the wild in order to prevent dietary-related diseases such as obesity, malnutrition, and gastrointestinal disorders, which are among the more common health disorders in captive prairie dogs.

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Prairie Dogs - Owning

Prairie dogs (most often black-tailed prairie dogs) are becoming popular as pets. Like all rodents, they have teeth that continually grow throughout life. They are active, playful and sturdy rodents and can make wonderful, affectionate pets if purchased young, socialized properly and given lots of attention.

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Prairie Dogs - Housing

Prairie dogs should be housed in as large a cage as is possible, as they require room to move around and explore. The biggest cage you can afford is probably too small! Space should be allowed for exercise.

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Plaque and Tartar Prevention in Dogs

Plaque forms on teeth shortly after eating and within 24 hours begins to harden, eventually turning into tartar. Tartar serves as a place for bacteria to grow, leading to gingivitis. As gingivitis worsens, periodontal disease develops which includes inflammation, pain, and tooth loss. Prevention of plaque and tartar build-up is key; use VOHC accepted food and/or water additives, wipe or brush your dog’s teeth daily, and have your veterinarian perform regular dental cleanings.

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Frostbite in Dogs

Frostbite is the damage that is caused to the skin and other tissues due to extreme cold. The paws, ears, and tail are the most common tissues to be affected. Diagnosis is usually based on the dog's medical history and physical examination. If you suspect your dog has frostbite, you should seek medical attention immediately. Mild cases of frostbite usually resolve with little permanent damage, while more severe frostbite may result in permanent disfiguration or alteration of the affected tissues. In severe cases, some dogs require surgical removal of the necrotic tissue or amputation.

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Feeding Your Rabbit

Rabbits are herbivores and are considered grazers. Rabbits should have a daily diet of mostly hay, a smaller amount of fresh vegetables, and a limited number of pellets. Hay is the most important part of a rabbit's daily intake. A common cause of obesity and soft stool is over-feeding pellets. Rabbits should be fed and provided with fresh water daily; hay should be available at all times. A pet rabbit’s diet should be supplemented with a variety of leafy green vegetables every day. The high sugar content in fruits (and even carrots) may upset the normal GI tract bacteria if given in excess. Rabbits engage in coprophagy, which means they eat their own feces at night. These fecal pellets are called cecotropes and serve as a rich source of nutrients, specifically protein and vitamins B and K.

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Housing Your Rabbit

A large, well-ventilated cage with a plastic bottom and wire walls and top is suitable. Wire bottom rabbit cages are acceptable, but to decrease foot trauma, at least half of the wire floor should be covered with plastic, Plexiglas, or untreated wood. The bottom of the cage can be lined with hay or commercially available recycled paper products. Rabbits can be trained to use a litter box. Since rabbits like to dig and to chew, offer cardboard boxes, paper tubes, paper bags, and hard plastic baby toys for entertainment. Rabbits should never be allowed to run loose in the house unless they are supervised or contained in a rabbit-proof room as they love to chew and can be destructive. Offering your rabbit chew toys may prevent your him from chewing inappropriate objects. Rabbits tolerate cold better than heat and are very sensitive to heat stroke. Keep their environmental temperature at or below 80°F (26°C), and make sure their enclosure is well ventilated.

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Owning a Rabbit

If properly handled and socialized, rabbits make curious, sociable, pleasant, docile, quiet, and gentle pets. They rarely bite but can scratch with their sharp claws and powerful hind legs if improperly handled. If held improperly, a rabbit can kick hard and dislocate or break its back, resulting in severe chronic disabilities that may even necessitate euthanasia. Their average life span is 5-8 years old (small breeds can reach 10-14 years old), and they reach breeding age at 6 months. Rabbits pass cecotropes at night which are softer, stickier, and darker than normal fecal pellets and contain important nutrients. Providing your rabbit with unlimited amounts of hay and blocks of wood to chew helps prevent overgrown teeth, a common condition in pet rabbits.

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Health Problems in Rabbits

Rabbits have unique gastrointestinal tracts and need a high-fiber, low-carbohydrate diet to help keep the normal GI bacteria fermenting their food. When they are fed a diet high in carbohydrate, administered certain types of antibiotics, or undergo a rapid diet change, they can develop life-threatening GI stasis. Rabbits with GI stasis become lethargic, dehydrated, weak, lose weight, and must be treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Only rarely do rabbits develop true GI tract obstructions from ingesting foreign objects and require surgery to remove the obstruction. Rabbits are coprophagic, consuming cecotropes overnight that serve as a source of critical protein and vitamins. Rabbits that eat high calcium alfalfa-based diets or high-calcium vegetables are prone to developing bladder stones that must be removed surgically. Bunnies housed at temperatures over 80°F are subject to heat stroke, since they cannot sweat and should be housed inside in a cool place, or if outside, should have plenty of shade and water.

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Choosing a Pet Reptile

Before acquiring a reptile, thoroughly research all aspects of reptile ownership including not only which reptile is appropriate for your lifestyle, but also how to provide it with proper diet, suitable housing, and a healthy, stimulating environment. As a rule, if you want a pet to snuggle with, a reptile is not for you! If, on the other hand, you want an animal you can display in a well-designed, natural habitat, marvel in its natural behaviors, and enjoy learning about it, owning a reptile might be for you. Most reptiles must be fed and watered daily, and often their cages need to be cleaned daily as well. All reptiles need to be examined by a reptile-savvy veterinarian immediately after purchase or adoption (within 48 hours), and then at least annually after that. Since many exotic animals are prey species that hide illness to avoid being captured by predators, these pets usually do not act sick (or show any indication of illness) until they are very sick and need immediate veterinary attention. Regular veterinary care, plus an informed, knowledgeable pet owner, greatly reduces the likelihood of illness and death in these pets.

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Feeding Rodents

All pet rodents must be fed a good, high quality rodent chow available at pet stores. Many veterinarians also recommend offering hay and fresh vegetables to rodents to encourage chewing and the wearing down of their continuously growing teeth. Diets containing seeds and nuts are not recommended, as they are high in fat and low in nutrition. Water may be offered in a bowl or in a sipper bottle. Seeds, nuts, pasta, unsalted popcorn, or a whole grain cracker can be offered as occasional treats. You can also feed your rodent fresh, well-cleaned vegetables daily and occasionally give a small amount of fruit. Unlike most pets, guinea pigs do not make their own vitamin C and should be fed a commercial high fiber guinea pig pellet with added vitamin C. Chew toys made from hard wood are commercially available in pet stores for rodents and should be offered to help prevent overgrowth of the incisors.

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Housing Rodents

Any cage used to house a pet rodent must be easy to clean, as poor husbandry and hygiene can contribute to illness in these animals. The bigger the cage, the better, as rodents need room to exercise and explore. While some species of rodents may be housed in pairs or groups, unneutered males and females should not be housed together, or they will breed. Different species should not be housed together. Rodents love to dig and bury and should be provided with paper bedding or shredded or recycled paper in their cages. The cage should be spot-cleaned daily and the bedding changed completely at least weekly. Toys provide enrichment and psychological stimulation, as well as exercise, for pet rodents. Since rodents like to burrow, they should have a hiding place in the cage, and chinchillas should have a box containing special, fine particle sand in which to bathe.

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Rodents - Owning

Pet rodents, sometimes also referred to as pocket pets are very popular pets. Hamsters, rats, mice, gerbils, and guinea pigs are the most common rodents kept as pets. They make good first pets for young children and as a rule require minimal care.

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Health Problems in Rodents

Rodents commonly develop certain health problems. Rabies is very unlikely in pet rodents (especially those housed inside, away from other animals). Many rodents barber their own hair or the hair of a cagemate as a result of stress in the form of overcrowding, fighting, or boredom. Foot necrosis is caused by fine fiber or thread nesting material wrapping around toes or feet and cutting off circulation. Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, so they must receive it as a supplement in their diets. All pet rodents, but especially guinea pigs and chinchillas, are very susceptible to life-threatening heat stroke from high ambient temperatures (greater than 80°F or 27°C). Certain antibiotics should never be used in rodents, as they upset the normal bacteria that live in rodents’ gastrointestinal tracts and favor toxin-producing bacteria that can be fatal to rodents. Chromodacryorrhea is seen in mice, gerbils, and most often in rats Diarrhea can have several different causes in rodents including infections with different bacteria, parasites, or viruses. Rodents also commonly get fractured bones from mishandling or falls, bacterial skin infections (dermatitis) on their faces, and may also experience seizures.

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Snakes: Colubrid

The family of Colubrid snakes comprise over 1,000 different species. These snakes are non-venomous, often make very good pets and come in a variety of colorful patterns.

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Snakes - Constrictor

While there are many species of pythons and boas, those noted here are among the easiest to keep; however, constrictor snakes, like the very large reticulated python, can be dangerous in the hands of an inexperienced keeper, while others, such as the royal python, can be frustrating because of their long periods of not eating. Therefore, if you are choosing your first pet snake, you may want to go with an easier to keep, relatively smaller snake, such as a rainbow boa.

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Feeding Pet Snakes

All snakes are carnivores. Some eat warm-blooded prey (rodents, rabbits, birds), while others eat insects, amphibians, eggs, other reptiles, fish, earthworms, or slugs. Since snakes eat entire prey whole, it is easier for their owners to feed them nutritionally complete diets and certainly prevents many of the dietary-related diseases commonly seen in other reptiles. Live prey should not be fed to snakes. Snakes can be offered either thawed, previously frozen prey, or freshly killed ones. Smaller or younger snakes usually eat twice each week, while larger, more mature snakes typically eat once every week or two. If your snake has a decreased appetite, see your veterinarian. A large, heavy ceramic crock or bowl filled with fresh clean water should be provided at all times.

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Snakes - Housing

You should try to provide the biggest cage possible. The type of cage you set up must be appropriate for the specific needs of the different species. Smaller species or juvenile snakes often do well in a 10 or 20 gallon aquarium, or even a plastic container (cut small air holes!).

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Common Problems in Pet Snakes

Anorexia means lack of appetite or refusal to eat. Anorexia can be a normal condition associated with the breeding season, egg bearing, or shedding. Anorexia can also be a symptom of an underlying environmental problem or diseases including infectious stomatitis, internal parasites, gastrointestinal blockage, intestinal infections, respiratory disease, kidney or liver failure, tumors, or gout. Salmonella can cause severe gastrointestinal disease or life-threatening septicemia. Many animals and people carry these bacteria without showing any clinical signs, yet they shed the bacteria in their feces and serve as a source of infection for others. Snakes commonly develop lumps and bumps either on their skin or within their bodies. External lumps may be caused by abscesses, tumors, or parasites. Internal swellings can be caused by organ enlargement, retained eggs in species of snakes that lay eggs, tumors, or even constipation. A healthy, well-maintained snake will shed its skin in one piece. Some snakes experience difficult or improper shedding. Burns occur with pet snakes when the animal, naturally seeking a warm place to rest, either finds a place that is too hot or stays in that hot spot too long. Offering live prey to a snake should be avoided, as live prey can cause severe bites and life-threatening injuries to the snake. Dystocia occurs when a female snake is unable to pass eggs and may require medical or surgical procedures.

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Sugar Gliders - Feeding

Sugar gliders are small marsupial mammals that are omnivorous eaters, meaning they eat a wide variety of foodstuffs. Items from insects to eucalyptus to gum from the acacia tree may all be consumed to a varying degree. Improper nutrition is one of the most prominent causes of illnesses in sugar gliders. This handout provides the information needed to feed your sugar glider a healthy diet.

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Feeding Box Turtles

Box turtles are omnivorous. Generally, your box turtle's diet should be about 50% plant-based material and 50% animal-based material, but be sure to discuss a specific diet plan for your turtle with your veterinarian. Most young turtles eat daily, while older turtles can be fed daily or every other day, depending upon the pet's individual appetite, body weight, and overall health. Most (80-90%) of the plant material fed to box turtles should be vegetables and flowers, and only 10-20% should be fruit. As a rule, dark, leafy greens should make up the largest part of the diet. Fruit should be fed more sparingly than vegetables, since they are often preferred by box turtles over vegetables and tend to be less nutritious. The key is to feed a wide variety of healthy items, including both plant- and animal-based protein sources. A common problem seen in pet box turtles is over-supplementation with vitamins (especially vitamin D3) and minerals. Check with your veterinarian about the need to supplement your pet's diet with any kind of vitamin or mineral. Fresh clean water should always be available to box turtles.

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Owning a Pet Snake

Several species of snakes are commonly kept as pets including king snakes, rat snakes, garter snakes, corn snakes, various pythons, and various boa constrictors. Some snakes, especially the ball python, may not eat for weeks to months after the stress of going to a new home and new environment. Snakes shed their skin every few weeks as they grow. A healthy snake in a healthy environment sheds its old skin in one piece. Young, captive-raised animals make the best pets. Within 48 hours of your purchase, your snake should be examined by a qualified reptile veterinarian. Like all pets, snakes should be examined at least annually, and a fecal examination, looking for parasites, should be part of every examination.

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Housing Box Turtles

A 20-gallon aquarium is usually adequate to begin with, depending on the size of the turtle, but as your turtle grows, you may need to provide it with a 60-100-gallon aquarium. Newspaper, butcher paper, paper towels, or commercially available paper-based pelleted bedding or reptile carpet is recommended. Cedar wood shavings should never be used. Rocks and hiding places should be provided. Provide a shallow water dish or pan with a ramp to help the turtle climb in and out of the dish to soak and drink. Turtles are ectotherms and therefore require a heat source in the tank to establish a temperature gradient within the tank. Hot rocks or sizzle rocks are dangerous and should not be used. UV light is essential for turtles to manufacture vitamin D3 needed for proper calcium absorption. Failure to provide UV light can predispose turtles to metabolic bone disease. If you house your turtle outdoors, it should be contained within an escape-proof enclosure. Make sure a shaded area is provided to enable your turtle to cool off from the sun, as well as a hiding area to provide seclusion and escape from rain.

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Owning Box Turtles

Box turtles can make great pets if cared for properly. With proper diet and housing, captive box turtles usually live up to 20 years of age, but some have been reported to live 30-40 years. Most turtles carry Salmonella asymptomatically, in that they do not show signs of illness. Wash your hands thoroughly with disinfectant soap every time after handling, feeding your reptile, or cleaning its cage items to help minimize risks of contracting salmonellosis. Turtles have protective shells that replace many of the bones that other animals have. The shell is covered with bony plates called scutes. Turtles have strong leg and neck muscles that enable them to retract their limbs and head into their shells when they are disturbed or stressed. Turtles have a renal portal blood system. Unlike mammals that excrete urea, box turtles and other reptiles try to conserve water by excreting uric acid. Turtles have a cloaca, which is the common space inside the hind end of the turtle’s body into which the urinary, gastrointestinal, and reproductive systems all empty. Feces and urine that accumulates in the cloaca is voided externally to the outside through the vent opening, found on the under surface of the tail. Within 48 hours of your purchase or adoption of a new turtle, your new pet should be examined by a veterinarian familiar with reptiles. Like all pets, turtles should be examined at least annually and should have their feces tested for parasites at every examination.

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Box Turtles: Problems

Box turtles can be very fairly easy to care for type of turtle. It needs to be mentioned that there are several medical conditions that are known with box turtle ownership. Every box turtle owner should be aware that any swelling, change in energy level or food intake needs veterinary attention relatively soon.

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Bearded Dragons - Feeding

Bearded dragons are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant- and animal-based foods, including insects. Generally speaking, bearded dragon's diet should be about 50% plant-based material and 50% animal-based material.

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Bearded Dragons - Housing

Bearded dragons are popular, well-known lizards currently considered one of the best pet lizards. The minimum cage size for a juvenile lizard is a 20-gallon aquarium, depending on the size of the bearded dragon. Substrate, or bedding material, should be easy to clean out and non-toxic to lizards if they accidentally eat it. Large rocks, easy enough to climb on or around, in the cage also allow for basking and provide a more interesting, natural environment.

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Bearded Dragons - Owning

Bearded dragons are popular, well-known lizards, currently considered one of the best pet lizards. This lizard is omnivorous, eating both plant- and animal- based foods. They are highly social, friendly, animated, curious, docile and gentle animals that are easy to tame and are very responsive to their owners. Within 48 hours of your purchase, your bearded dragon should be examined by a veterinarian familiar with reptiles.

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Bearded Dragons - Problems

Bearded dragons have several unique problems; understanding these problems will allow you to better care for your pet and minimize future health care problems. These problems include Salmonella, avascular necrosis, abscesses, and dystocia.

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Lighting Requirements for Reptiles

A wild reptile typically spends many hours a day basking in the sun, absorbing ultraviolet (UV) light; necessary for the manufacture of vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is manufactured in the skin and is required for proper calcium absorption from food. Failure to provide UV light can predispose a pet reptile to nutritional metabolic bone disease, an overly common condition of pet reptiles that is fatal if not recognized and treated. Bulbs should be replaced every six months or as directed by the manufacturer. Regular exposure to natural direct sunlight outside is encouraged and recommended whenever possible. Most reptile owners are advised by veterinarians to keep light exposure and temperature variations consistent in their pet’s enclosure to help reptiles maintain appropriate body temperatures and feeding cycles and to stimulate proper immune function, thereby helping keep pets healthy.

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Feeding Aquatic Turtles

Turtles are omnivorous, eating both animal protein and vegetable matter. As juveniles, they are mainly carnivorous, become more omnivorous as they age. When feeding turtles, offering a variety of food is important to help stimulate the turtle to eat and provide nutritional balance. The carnivorous portion of their diet should consist of commercial turtle or fish pellets, as well as a variety of invertebrates and vertebrates. The plant portion of the diet should be made up of vegetables, preferably ones that float and can be left in the water for the turtle to nibble on throughout the day. Some veterinarians suggest adding a balanced, commercially available multivitamin once per week with an additional source of calcium, such as a calcium block or cuttlebone, twice per week. Having a well-functioning filtration system that is cleaned regularly is key to ensuring good water quality. Turtles and other reptiles commonly carry Salmonella bacteria on their skin or in the gastrointestinal tracts, so always wash your hands thoroughly after feeding, cleaning, or handling turtles.

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Housing Aquatic Turtles

An improper environment is one of the most common causes of health problems encountered in reptiles next to improper nutrition. Aquatic turtles should be kept in as large an aquarium as possible and the environment should have enough water for the turtle to swim, a dry area on which the turtle can escape the water to bask, a heat source, and a source of ultraviolet (UV) light. Since pet turtles eat and eliminate in the same water, the tank water must be changed at least once weekly or more frequently if it becomes dirty. A heat source is necessary for all reptiles to maintain their environmental temperature within a constant range. In addition to regulating the water temperature, the temperature of the basking area must be regulated. Plants can be used for decoration, as long as they are safe for the turtle to eat. Failure to provide unfiltered UV light can predispose your pet to nutritional metabolic bone disease. Thoroughly wash your hands after feeding, cleaning, or handling turtles, as they can carry and transmit Salmonella bacteria.

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Owning Aquatic Turtles

The red-eared slider is probably the most popular pet aquatic turtle. If you keep more than one in the same tank, they should have plenty of swimming room and should be of similar size to avoid bullying. The goal is to keep the tank temperature and light cycle constant so that pet turtles do not go into hibernation. Red-eared sliders can be fed a combination of commercially available turtle pellets, small fish, and a variety of vegetables. They should also receive supplemental calcium and a multivitamin. All reptiles can potentially carry Salmonella bacteria in their gastrointestinal tracts and can shed it in their feces. Thoroughly wash your hands after handling your turtle, feeding it, or cleaning its cage. Males are smaller than females. Turtles have a cloaca; feces and urine that accumulates in the cloaca is voided externally to the outside through the vent opening, found on the under surface of the tail. Within 48 hours of your purchase or adoption of a new turtle, your new pet should be examined by a veterinarian familiar with reptiles.

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Common Problems in Aquatic Turtles

There are several problems that can occur in aquatic turtles. Cystic calculi occur in turtles when minerals from the diet form crystals in the urine, which stick together and form stones, often resulting from improper nutrition and/or dehydration. A prolapse occurs when an organ protrudes from the vent. Regardless of the tissue or organ prolapsed, all can become traumatized, become dried out, or suffer from compromised blood flow and should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. If you notice that your turtle's shell is growing irregularly, it may be a sign of malnutrition or metabolic bone disease. Any turtle whose shell is abnormal should be checked by a veterinarian so that appropriate treatment can be initiated. Although shell fractures can be serious, the shell is bone and often can be repaired. Any trauma to the shell should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian immediately. Green algae growing on the outside of the shell occurs commonly and can be cleaned off with periodic brushing of the shell with disinfectant cleaners. The skin of turtles periodically sheds off in pieces. In the water, shed skin appears as a whitish, "fuzzy" substance. Although turtles are certainly not the only reptiles that can carry Salmonella, most turtles carry the infection asymptomatically. Wash your hands thoroughly with disinfectant soap every time after handling, cleaning, or feeding your reptile or its cage items to help minimize risks of contracting salmonellosis. Most veterinarians feel it is best to try to prevent captive red-eared sliders from hibernating. Dystocia occurs the female turtle is unable to pass her eggs, is a common problem in reptiles, and can be life-threatening. A turtle with dystocia typically does not eat and rapidly becomes sick, lethargic, or unresponsive and should be seen by a veterinarian familiar with reptiles immediately.

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Taming Training Talking to Birds

It is very desirable to have a tame, affectionate and interactive bird as a family pet. Small birds such as finches and canaries may prove very difficult or challenging to befriend.

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African Grey Parrots - General

The African grey parrot, originally from central Africa, is a highly intelligent bird, now commonly bred in captivity as a pet. This elegant medium-sized bird is entirely grey with a strikingly red, short blunt tail.

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Bruised Sole in Horses

The sole is the insensitive protective undersurface of the horse's foot in which are the highly vascular (rich in blood supply) and sensitive (rich in nerve supply) tissues (laminae) that connect the hoof to the pedal bone.

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Caring for the Older Horse and Pony

The average horse lives to be approximately 20 years of age, although many ponies and a few horses live for 30 years. Older horses and ponies need a little extra care to ensure that they remain healthy and happy.

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Choke in Horses

Choke is a relatively common condition that occurs when food or a foreign body blocks the horse's esophagus (gullet), which is the tube that takes food from the back of the mouth (pharynx) to the stomach.

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Colic in Horses

The term colic simply means abdominal pain. There are many causes of colic and symptoms range from very mild to violent.

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Corns in Horses

Corns are specific types of bruises of the sole, specifically occurring at the angle of the sole between the hoof wall and the bars, i.e., at the 'seat of corn', most commonly affecting the medial (inside) aspect of the front feet.

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Equine Dentistry

Horses and ponies are efficient herbivores and one of the key adaptations that evolution for a life of grazing has equipped them with is a set of hardwearing and specialized teeth.

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Diarrhea in Horses

Diarrhea means the production of feces that are softer than normal. Normal equine feces are produced in formed, non-offensive smelling, greenish-brown, semi-solid portions that will break up in the hand, revealing varying degrees of fibrous content depending upon diet.

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Failure of Passive Transfer in Horses

In pregnant mares, unlike most other animals, antibodies do not cross the placenta into the foal's blood stream before birth. Therefore, when a foal is born it has no natural defence mechanisms against infection because it has no antibodies, that are the blood's special immune proteins, with which to fight infection.

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Farriery in Horses

It is a well recognized saying 'no foot no horse'. Caring for your horse's feet and hooves and ensuring that he is attended to regularly by your farrier will safeguard his long term soundness.

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Hoof Wall Cracks in Horses

Cracks may form in the horse's hoof wall, usually in a vertical direction, and either originate from the ground surface (sometimes called grass cracks) or, less commonly, from the coronary band (sometimes called sand cracks).

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Laminitis in Horses

Laminitis is a common but still incompletely understood condition that causes varying degrees of foot pain, from the slightly pottery pony to severe life-threatening lameness.

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Management Measures to Help Control Disease in Horses and Ponies

Good management is the key to preventing or controlling the spread of disease. Good management practices aim to keep horses in good condition and in a healthy environment, in order to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of disease, to identify individuals especially at risk and to promote rapid recovery if disease does occur.

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Nail Bind and Nail Prick/Quick in Horses

When a farrier shoes a horse, accurate placement of each nail through the insensitive epidermal laminae of the hoof is essential. The nail must penetrate deep enough to hold firm, but not deep enough to penetrate the sensitive laminae of the hoof.

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Puncture Wounds in Foot in Horses

The horse's hoof is a very complex structure. The tough outer wall surrounds layers of sensitive laminae ('leaves') that support, nourish with blood and, in turn, cover the underlying pedal bone.

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Pus in the Foot (Gravel) in Horses

Infection in the foot is by far, the most common cause of acute (sudden), single-leg lameness in the horse. Infection results in painful inflammation and pus (abscess) formation.

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Seedy Toe in Horses

Seedy toe is a separation of the horse's hoof wall from the underlying sensitive laminae at the white line, resulting in a cavity that fills with crumbling dirt, horn and debris and is prone to associated infection.

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Sheath Cleaning in Horses

Some horse owners feel that it is necessary to 'clean' a colt or gelding's prepuce (sheath) and penis on a fairly regular basis.

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Tendon Injuries in Horses

Tendons are the strap-like structures that attach muscles to the bones on which they act. Most tendons are short and rarely damaged. However, the long tendons of the limbs are very vulnerable to damage during exercise or as a result of direct trauma.

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Thrush in Horses

Thrush is an unpleasant infection of the horse's frog that is predisposed by moist, damp, dirty ground or stall conditions.

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Plaque and Tartar Prevention in Cats

Plaque forms on teeth shortly after eating and within 24 hours begins to harden and eventually turns into tartar. Tartar serves as a place for bacteria to grow, leading to gingivitis. As gingivitis worsens, periodontal disease develops which includes inflammation, pain, and tooth loss. Prevention of plaque and tartar build-up is key; use VOHC accepted food and/or water additives, wipe or brush your cat’s teeth daily, and have your veterinarian perform regular dental cleanings.

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Skunk Spray and Your Dog

Skunks spray volatile compounds from their anal sacs if they feel threatened by a potential predator such as a dog. Dogs can come across a skunk in rural or urban areas but most often at dawn or dusk and in areas where skunks make their den. Avoiding these areas at these times is the best way to avoid a skunk encounter. If sprayed in the face your dog may need veterinary care, as corneal damage can occur if sprayed in the eyes, and vomiting, diarrhea, or anemia can result if sprayed in the mouth. Washing the offending oils from the dog is complicated, but there are several commercial skunk shampoos that are good for this. If these are not available a combination of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap can be used to help in the short term. It is important to avoid getting this solution in the eyes or mouth as the ingredients can be irritating and create more problems. Skunks may carry rabies so avoid contact between them and your dog.

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Degenerative Joint Disease in Cats

Degenerative joint disease is arthritis caused by deterioration and degeneration of tissues lining joints. It is an under-recognized condition in cats. Treatment involves modification of the home environment, regular gentle exercise, anti-inflammatory drugs and other medications, omega fatty acids, chondroprotectants, and possibly other nutraceuticals. Maintaining your cat’s weight can help prevent degenerative joint disease.

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Brushing Your Dog's Teeth

It is estimated that over two-thirds of dogs over the age of three have periodontal disease (infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth). Brushing three times a week is the minimum recommendation to help remove plaque and prevent tartar accumulation. In order to be successful at brushing your dog's teeth, you must make it a positive experience for both of you. Do not use human toothpaste or baking soda. A list of dental products and diets that have been accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Counsel can be found on www.vohc.org.

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Are Booster Vaccines Necessary for Cats?

Primary vaccination is essential in order to prevent the return of the once common deadly infectious diseases in kittens and cats. Recent research indicates that not all vaccines require yearly boosters. However, there is no evidence that annual booster vaccination is anything but beneficial to the majority of cats. Ultimately, how frequently your cat should be vaccinated is determined by your cat's lifestyle and relative risk. Ask your veterinarian about the type and schedule of vaccines that is appropriate for your cat.

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Grooming and Coat Care for Your Dog

Although health and nutrition influence the luster and texture of your dog’s coat from the inside, regular grooming and skin care on the outside will help keep his coat clean and free of tangles. Selective breeding has led to the development of dogs with a myriad of different coat characteristics and different grooming needs. Your dog will benefit from daily brushing and it is important to use the appropriate grooming tools for your dog’s particular coat type. Most dogs require bathing on an occasional basis, usually when their coat becomes dirty or when they develop a doggy odor. Be sure to use a shampoo specifically designed for dogs.

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Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog

The general condition of your dog's skin and coat are good indicators of its health. A healthy coat should be shiny and smooth, not brittle or coarse, and healthy skin should be supple and clear, not greasy, flaky or bumpy. Selective breeding has led to the development of dogs with a myriad of different coat characteristics requiring varying grooming needs. In order to maintain the skin and hair in a healthy state, your dog also requires a properly balanced diet.

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Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Cat

The general condition of your cat's skin and coat are good indicators of her health. A healthy coat should be shiny and smooth, not brittle or coarse, and healthy skin should be supple and clear, not greasy, flaky, or bumpy. Selective breeding has led to the development of cats with a myriad of different coat characteristics requiring varying grooming needs. In order to maintain the skin and hair in a healthy state, your cat also requires a properly balanced diet.

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Owning a Pet Rat

Rats are extremely intelligent, inquisitive, interactive, and social. If well socialized from a young age and treated gently, they are easy to handle, affectionate, and rarely bite unless provoked. Rats generally make good family pets but should never be left unsupervised with small children. Rats live about 2 to 3 years. The incisors (front teeth) of all rodents grow continuously throughout the pet's life. Rats should be examined by a veterinarian at least once a year and twice a year as they get older.

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Owning a Pet Hamster

If well socialized from a young age and treated gently, hamsters are generally slow moving, reasonably easy to handle, and affectionate. Hamsters generally make good family pets but should never be left unsupervised with small children. Hamsters may bite if restrained forcefully or frightened while being held. Hamsters live, on average, 18 to 24 months (some may reach 36 months). They have large cheek pouches which they can fill with bedding material or large amounts of food that they then carry off to deposit in a corner to use or consume later. The incisors (front teeth) of all rodents grow continuously throughout the pet's life. Hamsters have a hip or flank gland on their sides, and female hamsters produce a profuse vaginal discharge around the time of ovulation. Hamsters require annual physical examinations and fecal tests for parasites.

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Owning a Pet Gerbil

Gerbils generally make good family pets but should never be left unsupervised with small children. If well-socialized from a young age and treated gently, they can be wonderful pets. They tend to scurry and scamper about, making them challenging to hold. Therefore, children should be older than 10 years of age before getting a pet gerbil, as children younger than this will have difficulty restraining them. The incisors (front teeth) of all rodents grow continuously throughout the animal's life. When they are excited or frightened, gerbils will thump their back feet – a behavior called foot-drumming. Gerbils do not require vaccines, but they do require annual examinations.

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Grooming and Coat Care for Your Cat

Although health and nutrition influence the luster and texture of your cat's coat from the inside, regular grooming and skin care on the outside will help keep your cat's coat clean and free of tangles, no matter what type of hair coat she has. Brushing helps to remove loose hairs and dead skin cells, to keep the coat free of dirt, debris, and external parasites, and to distribute natural skin oils along the hair shafts. How often your particular cat needs to be bathed will vary somewhat with her age, lifestyle, and underlying health status. If your cat is arthritic or overweight, she may have difficulty grooming herself properly and you will need to help by grooming certain areas of her body.

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Wellness Examination in Dogs

A wellness examination includes a complete physical examination and discussion about your dog’s daily habits and nutrition. Depending on your dog’s age, these visits may be recommended annually or more frequently. Lab work such as blood tests, urinalysis, and fecal tests are often recommended to screen for underlying disease that may not be detectable by a physical exam and discussion alone. Radiographs of your dog’s chest, abdomen, or joints may also be suggested. Prepare for your dog’s wellness examination by knowing what food he eats and how much, any supplements or medications he is taking and if anyone in your household has noticed changes or has concerns.

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Wellness Examination in Cats

A wellness examination includes a complete physical examination and discussion about your cat’s daily habits and nutrition. Depending on your cat’s age, these visits may be recommended annually or more frequently. Lab work such as blood tests, urinalysis, and fecal tests are often recommended to screen for underlying disease that may not be detectable by a physical exam and discussion alone. Blood pressure assessment and radiographs of your cat’s chest, abdomen, or joints may also be suggested. Prepare for your cat’s wellness examination by knowing what food she eats and how much, any supplements or medications they are taking and if anyone in your household has noticed changes or concerns.

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Estrous Cycles in Dogs

The estrous cycle in dogs on average happens twice a year once a dog reaches sexual maturity. On average a dog will be in heat for 1½ to 2 weeks but this can be shorter or longer. In many cases, a bloody vaginal discharge is the first sign that a pet owner will notice when their dog comes into heat. In some cases, the discharge will not be apparent until several days after heat has begun. There are no valid reasons for letting a dog have a litter of puppies before being spayed. If you want to keep your dog from having any accidental pregnancies, it is best to have her spayed.

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Eclampsia in Dogs

Eclampsia is hypocalcemia in a dog who has recently given birth. Breeds such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Toy Poodles, Miniature Pinscher, Shih Tzu, and other small breeds are at an increased risk. Eclampsia is considered an emergency and immediate medical attention should be sought. It can quickly progress from weakness to tremors, seizures, or paralysis. Treatment involves immediate intravenous injections of calcium and other drugs. Recovery from eclampsia is usually rapid and complete if treated early.

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Surgical Pain in Dogs

Although surgery may sometimes be unavoidable, the understanding of pet pain has improved dramatically over the past 5 to 10 years. Your veterinarian will begin managing your dog’s pain before the procedure even starts by administering preemptive pain medication. During surgery, strategies such as local freezing, continuous rate infusions, and anesthetic blocks may also be used. Immediately after surgery, pain relief will continue with medications and possibly physical medicine modalities.

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Nutrition - General Feeding Guidelines for Dogs

Dogs are omnivores meaning that, under normal circumstances, dogs can meet their nutritional needs by eating a combination of plant and animal foods. Selecting a dog food can be a challenging task. Feeding your dog a proper diet for their life stage is one of the most important aspects to help keep them at optimal health. Your veterinary health care team can help you make good-quality diet choices and determine the correct number of calories your dog needs in a day.

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Motion Sickness in Dogs

Motion sickness in dogs is a common problem. It is more common in younger dogs than adults. Many adult dogs become anxious or even nauseous during travel due to a lack of conditioning and the overwhelming unusual stimuli associated with moving inside a vehicle. Signs your dog may be experiencing motion sickness may include whining, drooling and smacking lips, pacing, vomiting or diarrhea, and lethargy or inactivity. The best way to ease your dog’s travel anxiety is by taking several short trips before embarking on a long haul. If your dog seems to need a little more help to stay calm during travel, speak to your veterinarian about using anti-nausea medication, anti-anxiety medications, as well as natural calming agents such as pheromones.

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Surgical Pain in Cats

Although surgery may sometimes be unavoidable, the understanding of pet pain has improved dramatically over the past 5 to 10 years. Your veterinarian will begin managing your cat’s pain before the procedure even starts by administering preemptive pain medication. During surgery, strategies such as local freezing, continuous rate infusions, and anesthetic blocks may also be used. Immediately after surgery, pain relief will continue with medications and possibly physical medicine modalities.

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Pain Management for Cats

Most cats instinctively hide their pain as a survival mechanism which can make detecting pain in cats a challenge. Although the signs may be subtle, careful observation of a cat’s everyday behaviors will often reveal pain when it is present. These signs may include changes in behavior, mobility, elimination, and grooming habits. Common pain medications include NSAIDs and opioids. Your veterinarian will choose the appropriate drugs based on your cat's specific needs.

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Overweight, Obesity, and Pain in Dogs: Overview

Obesity is a very common problem in dogs and leads to many health problems including an increased risk of diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and many types of cancer. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation in the body, worsening osteoarthritis. If there is already evidence of OA, reducing inflammation and pain will help encourage your dog to become more active, which in turn will speed up appropriate weight loss. Obesity can be prevented or reversed by being aware of calorie intake, body condition, and exercise.

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Overweight, Obesity, and Pain in Cats: Overview

Obesity is a very common problem in cats and leads to many health problems, including an increased risk of diabetes mellitus, heart disease and many types of cancer. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation in the body, worsening osteoarthritis. If there is already evidence of osteoarthritis, reducing inflammation and pain will help encourage your cat to become more active, which will speed up appropriate weight loss. Obesity can be prevented or reversed by being aware of calorie intake, body condition, and exercise.

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Overweight, Obesity, and Pain in Dogs: Prevention and Action Plans

Obesity is a very common problem in dogs due to too many calories in and not enough calories burned. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation in the body, worsening osteoarthritis. To prevent your dog from becoming obese, speak to your veterinarian about appropriate food for your dog's particular life stage. Increasing your dog's daily exercise can help prevent or reverse obesity. Be aware or your dog's body condition and keep track of his weight.

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Overweight, Obesity, and Pain in Cats: Prevention and Action Plans

Obesity is a very common problem in cats due to too many calories in and not enough calories burned. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation in the body, worsening osteoarthritis. To prevent your cat from becoming obese, speak to your veterinarian about appropriate food for your cat's particular life stage. Including exercise in your cat's daily routine can help prevent or reverse obesity. Be aware or your cat's body condition and keep track of her weight.

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Why Preventive Health Care is Important for Dogs

Preventive healthcare guidelines have been developed to help your dog live healthier, longer, and happier lives. Veterinary teams and dog owners should work together to ensure the best care possible for your dog.

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Why Preventive Health Care is Important for Cats

Preventive health care guidelines have been developed to help your cat live a healthier, longer, and happier life. Veterinary teams and cat owners should work together to ensure the best care possible for your cat.

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Quality of Life at the End of Life for Your Dog

Quality of life is a way to refer to and discuss the day-to-day life and lifestyle of a dog reaching the end of its life. Dr. Alice Villalobos, a veterinary oncologist, has developed a quality-of-life scale for dogs that provides guidelines that help owners and veterinarians work together to maintain a healthy human-animal bond. The scale looks at seven different categories including hurt, hunger, hydration, hygiene, happiness, mobility, more good days than bad. The scale can also help you clarify the decision for euthanasia, hopefully relieving anxiety and regret about your beloved dog's end of life.

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Quality of Life at the End of Life for Your Cat

Quality of life is a way to refer to and discuss the day-to-day life and lifestyle of a cat reaching the end of its life. Dr. Alice Villalobos, a veterinary oncologist, has developed a quality-of-life scale for cats that provides guidelines that help owners and veterinarians work together to maintain a healthy human-animal bond. The scale looks at seven different categories including hurt, hunger, hydration, hygiene, happiness, mobility, more good days than bad. The scale can also help you clarify the decision for euthanasia, hopefully relieving anxiety and regret about your beloved cat's end of life.

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How to Recognize Pain in Aging Cats

Cats are very good at hiding signs of pain, so cat owners need to be very observant to recognize behavior changes that indicate their cat needs help. Some of the most common behavior changes are associated with grooming and litter box habits. This handout describes these and other changes to watch for, as well as advice on how to support your aging cat.

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How to Recognize Pain in Aging Dogs

Pain can be difficult to detect in older dogs. It is important for dog owners to recognize subtle signs of pain in their dog, such as slowing down on walks, unwillingness to play, reluctance to sit or stand, limping or weight shifting, and sensitivity to touch on being picked up. If any of these behaviors are observed, your dog should be evaluated by your veterinarian and a pain management plan devised.

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Helping Your Dog with Osteoarthritis

Twenty percent of all dogs (regardless of age) are affected by osteoarthritis, making it the most common chronic disease they face. It is important to develop a plan with your veterinarian to help your dog maintain a good quality of life despite his arthritis. Arthritis management plans include weight loss, exercise, medications, diet, supplements, and modification of the home environment to ease your dog’s daily activities.

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Helping Your Cat with Osteoarthritis

It is estimated that 90% of cats over age 10 are affected by osteoarthritis, making it the most common chronic disease cats face. It is important to develop a plan with your veterinarian to help your cat maintain a good quality of life despite her arthritis. Arthritis management plans include weight loss, exercise, medications, diet, supplements, and modification of the home environment to ease your cat’s daily activities.

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Transdermal Medications: How They Work and How to Apply Them

Transdermal means the application of a medicine or drug through the skin, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Relatively few drugs are currently available for transdermal application. The biggest risk with a transdermal medication is that it could be insufficiently absorbed, resulting in inadequate drug levels and treatment. The inside of the outer ear flap (not inside the ear canal) is an excellent area to apply transdermal medications. After you have administered the medication, try to distract your pet from scratching or rubbing the ear for a few minutes by feeding your pet, taking your pet for a walk, or playing together immediately afterward. If your pet is prescribed a transdermal medication patch, your veterinarian will often shave an area to affix the patch.

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Nutraceuticals for Joint Support in Cats with Osteoarthritis

A nutraceutical is a food or food product that reportedly provides health and/or medical benefits. In addition to diet modifications, exercise, weight loss, and medications, joint support nutraceuticals are also helpful in an osteoarthritis management program. Nutraceuticals are not subjected to the same testing and regulation as pharmaceuticals. Your veterinarian can advise you on products that have been evaluated and have yielded positive effects.

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Nutraceuticals for Joint Support in Dogs with Osteoarthritis

A nutraceutical is a food or food product that reportedly provides health and medical benefits. Specific nutraceuticals are commonly used in the management of osteoarthritis in dogs. Because nutraceuticals are not subjected to the same testing and regulation as pharmaceuticals, it is always best to consult your veterinarian before giving any to your dog.

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Canine Influenza: The Dog Flu

Canine influenza virus (CIV) is primarily the result of two influenza strains: H3N8 from an equine origin and H3N2 from an avian origin. Both of these strains were previously known to infect species other than dogs, but are now able to infect and spread among dogs. The canine influenza virus is easy to transmit.

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Hospice Care for Pets - Overview - Part 1

Hospice is supportive care provided to individuals in the final phases of terminal disease so that they may live as fully and comfortably as possible. Hospice care, by definition and as practiced, recognizes that death is a part of life and focuses on maximizing the quality of life for the patient during whatever time remains. The veterinarian coordinates and oversees medical procedures, medication prescription and delivery, and comfort care, but the day-to-day hospice care happens in the home. With planning, forethought, and honest communication, it is possible to provide a dying pet with very reasonable and acceptable quality of life as the end of life approaches.

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Hospice Care for Pets - Overview - Part 2

Open, honest, and direct communication with your pet's veterinarian and members of the veterinary healthcare team throughout your pet's life lays the necessary foundation for effective communication as the end of life approaches. As soon as a life-limiting disease is diagnosed, it is time to open a dialogue about treatment options and how the approaching end of life will be handled. Delivery of hospice care is as individual as the pet and the family. Applying hospice and palliative care principles to our pets as they approach the end of their lives can be an emotionally rich and satisfying experience.

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Therapeutic Massage and Your Dog

As veterinarians become more conscious of the details and nuances of how dogs experience pain, they search for more methods with which to battle both acute and chronic pain in these patients. It is quite common now to look to human medicine for ideas and techniques that can be applied to dogs who are dealing with pain issues to help them feel better and to help relive their pain and discomfort. Therapeutic massage is one example of a physical medicine technique that has found a place in the canine pain management armamentarium.

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Therapeutic Massage and Your Cat

As veterinarians become more conscious of the details and nuances of how cats experience pain, they search for more methods with which to battle both acute and chronic pain in these patients. It is quite common now to look to human medicine for ideas and techniques that can be applied to cats who are dealing with pain issues to help them feel better and to help relive their pain and discomfort. Therapeutic massage is one example of a physical medicine technique that has found a place in the feline pain management armamentarium.

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Care for Your Pet After Vaccination

Modern vaccines are extremely effective and safe. However, it is common for many pets to experience mild side effects following vaccination, similar to those that humans experience. Other less common but more serious side effects can occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. These reactions are considered medical emergencies, and you should seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet is having a more serious reaction.

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Therapeutic Ultrasound

Therapeutic ultrasound is used as a treatment modality (method) to exert thermal, mechanical, and chemical effects on the treated tissues to enhance and facilitate healing. Physical therapists have used therapeutic ultrasound on human patients since the 1940s, and veterinarians have used it on animals since the 1970's.

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Euthanasia Decisions and Your Dog

Open and honest communication with your veterinarian and veterinary healthcare team throughout a dog's life lays the foundation for effective communication when that dog's life begins to draw to a close. Discussion with your veterinarian will clarify any specific medical implications of your dog's disease that can serve as benchmarks to suggest that euthanasia should be considered. Most often, euthanasia is provided at the veterinary practice or in your home. The veterinary healthcare team will be an important partner as you negotiate the difficult days and decisions leading up to your dog’s death.

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Spaying in Rats

An ovariohysterectomy is often referred to as a spay or spaying. It is a surgical procedure in which the ovaries and uterus are removed completely to sterilize or render a female animal infertile. Some veterinarians will perform an ovariectomy on rats, in which just the ovaries are removed. Spaying significantly minimizes the risk of ovarian, uterine, breast, and pituitary gland cancers in rats. Ideally, most rats are spayed between four and six months of age. Your veterinarian may recommend pre-surgical blood tests before surgery. In general, complications are rare with this surgery. However, as with any anesthetic or surgical procedure, in any species, there is always a small risk associated with being anesthetized. Most rats will experience no adverse effects following spaying, and in general, spaying is recommended for all healthy, young rats to prevent future health problems.

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Constipation in Dogs

Constipation is infrequent or difficult passage of stool or feces and is typically a temporary condition. Though there are many causes of constipation in dogs, most cases are caused by ingestion of irritating or indigestible substances. Constipation is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and medical history. A rectal exam to rule out rectal strictures, tumors, foreign bodies, or other abnormalities may be done. Abdominal radiographs, blood tests, and urinalysis are valuable for a full diagnosis and development of a treatment plan. Biopsies may also be recommended if a rectal mass or stricture is suspected. Most cases of constipation are relatively easy to treat through the use of manual removal, enemas, and medications. The prognosis for constipation is determined by the exact cause.

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Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Poisoning Alert for Dogs and Cats

Acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Paracetamol, APAP, N-acetyl-p-aminophenol) is a pain relief and fever-reducing medicine people use for many types of pain. Acetaminophen is available in many forms including tablets, capsules, gel caps, melt away tablets, rectal suppositories, and liquids. Acetaminophen is often found in homes with pets. Poisoning may happen when pets get into the owner’s medications.

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Cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff) in Rabbits

Cheyletiellosis in rabbits is a condition caused by the common rabbit mite, Cheyletiella parasitovorax. This mite’s effects are sometimes called "walking dandruff" because they are large, whitish mites that crawl across the skin and hair of a rabbit and cause excessive flaky skin. Other clinical signs of cheyletiellosis include itching, scratching, and hair/fur loss. This species of mites can live in the environment for a short time and affect people and other animals, so it is important to follow your veterinarian's recommendations for treating the environment and all pets in the household.

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Zinc Poisoning in Pets

Pets and people need some zinc in their diets. However, too much zinc can cause serious health problems.

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Living with a Deaf Dog

Dogs can suffer from hearing loss due to increasing age, chronic ear infections, or may be born with a defect. Deafness in dogs can present some challenges but overall, they can have a fairly healthy, normal life. Training is still possible by making some modifications and incorporating hand signals into the training regime. It is important to take their deafness into account when considering their safety and ensure that they are never off leash on or near a street.

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Living with a Deaf Cat

Cats can suffer from hearing loss due to increasing age, chronic ear infections, or may be born with a defect. Deafness in cats can present some challenges but overall, they can have a fairly healthy, normal life. It is possible to teach your cat household routines by incorporating hand signals and body language into your communication with your cat. It is important to take their deafness into account when considering their safety.

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Teaching and Training a Deaf Cat

Deaf cats are virtually no different from other cats except for their hearing. They are trainable using visual cues and hand signals, it just takes a lot of practice and patience. Deaf cats rely on their senses of touch and sight to help them negotiate their environment. Creating lookout areas for your cat can help her feel more secure. Deaf cats should never be allowed outside on their own.

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Teaching and Training a Deaf Dog

Deaf dogs are virtually no different from other dogs except for their hearing. They are trainable using visual cues and hand signals, it just takes a lot of practice. Training with food rewards usually works well to reinforce the wanted behavior. Never allow a deaf dog to be off-leash in an unfenced or open area.

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Palliative Care and Hospice for Pets: Overview

Palliative care can be as easy or complex as it needs to be to meet the needs of the pet and human family. Some palliative care patients benefit from massage, therapeutic laser, acupuncture, chiropractic, and physical rehabilitation techniques. Palliative care creates a bridge of care to support a pet as the time for humane euthanasia approaches. It is not a substitute for euthanasia, but it often helps us postpone euthanasia, allowing our pets to remain with us for whatever quality time remains for them.

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Palliative Care for Cats

Palliative medicine is, by definition, care that is delivered as a cat approaches her end of life. The first step in creating a palliative care plan for your cat is to meet with your veterinarian to discuss the expected course of the disease and how it will affect your cat's quality of life. Once a cat's activities of daily living have been identified, it is important to define family beliefs, the family's needs as care unfolds, and the goals for the cat as death approaches. An essential part of establishing goals of palliative therapy is understanding the expected course of the life-limiting disease. Knowledge is power and knowledge about disease allows for the development of a personalized palliative care plan.

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Palliative Care for Dogs

Palliative medicine is, by definition, care that is delivered as a dog approaches his end of life. The first step in creating a palliative care plan for your dog is to meet with your veterinarian to discuss the expected course of the disease and how it will affect your dog’s quality of life. Once a dog’s activities of daily living have been identified, it is important to define family beliefs, the family's needs as care unfolds, and the goals for the dog as death approaches. An essential part of establishing goals of palliative therapy is understanding the expected course of the life-limiting disease. Knowledge is power and knowledge about disease allows for the development of a personalized palliative care plan.

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Teflon (Polytetrafluoroethylene) Poisoning in Birds

Bird proofing your home is a great way to help keep your bird safe and healthy. After all, your bird's cage is its house and the confines of your home represent the bird's environment.

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Healthy Exercise for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs derive health benefits from regular exercise. An important aspect of facilitating, enhancing, lengthening, and strengthening our relationships with our canine companions is to keep them strong and fit through physical activity.

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Pyrethrin/Pyrethroid Poisoning in Dogs

Pyrethrin insecticides are naturally derived from the Chrysanthemum (mum) species of flower, and pyrethroids are the synthetic, chemical equivalent versions.

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Mites in Hedgehogs

Mites affecting pet hedgehogs, often called quill mites, are fairly common. Initially, an affected hedgehog may become itchy but if mites are left untreated, the clinical signs can become severe. Treatment for your hedgehog should always be under the guidance of a veterinarian.

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The Importance of Your Pet's Skin and Coat and the Role of Diet

A lustrous coat signals vitality and can indicate the health status of a pet. Nothing affects the condition of your pet's coat more than his food. Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals play an essential part in caring for your pet's skin and coat. The key to a healthy coat begins with your pet’s diet. If you are concerned about how your dog or cat's coat looks, ask your veterinarian if an underlying nutritional or medical condition is to blame.

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Applying Eye Ointments to Cats

Applying eye ointments to your cat's eye(s) can be a challenging or easy task. The proper administration of eye medications is essential for your cat's prompt recovery. It is important to use the medication as directed for the full duration and contact your veterinarian if you have problems. The tips and instructions in this handout may make administering your cat's eye ointment easier.

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Mothball Poisoning in Dogs

Mothballs are solid pesticides that slowly release a gas vapor to kill and repel moths, their larvae, and other insects from stored clothing and fabric. Mothballs are sometimes also used to repel snakes, mice, and other animals, although this use is not recommended and can be harmful to pets, children, and the environment.

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Applying Ointments, Creams, and Lotions on Cats

Applying topical medications to your pet can sometimes be a challenge. Creams, ointments, and lotions are for external use only. It is important to prevent your cat from licking and swallowing any of these external preparations as they may contain ingredients that could be harmful if swallowed. Most topical preparations work better if they are gently massaged in for a few moments after application. It is always a good idea to get someone to help hold your cat, especially when applying medications on a sensitive or painful area. If you still have trouble keeping your pet from licking the medication, please contact your veterinarian to get your cat fitted for an Elizabethan collar.

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Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair: Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy and Tibial Tuberosity Advancement

One of the most common injuries to the knee of dogs is tearing of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). This ligament is similar to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans. There are actually two cruciate ligaments inside the knee: the cranial cruciate ligament and caudal cruciate ligament. They are called cruciate because they cross over each other inside the middle of the knee.

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Deciphering Cat Food Labels

Cat food labels can certainly be confusing to interpret. In the United States, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has developed model laws and regulations that states use for animal feeds. In Canada, pet food labeling guidelines are regulated by the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act administered by Industry Canada. The Canadian government's Competition Bureau also has an extensive working group that upholds a voluntary code of conduct for the labeling and advertising of pet food. The most important information when comparing one dog food to another is the guaranteed analysis. Ingredient lists are somewhat useful when evaluating a particular cat food, but it is important to recognize the limitations. Talk to you veterinarian about the ingredient list and nutrient profile to help choose the diet that is right for your cat.

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Deciphering Dog Food Labels

Dog food labels can certainly be confusing to interpret. In the United States, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has developed model laws and regulations that states use for animal feeds. In Canada, pet food labeling guidelines are regulated by the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act administered by Industry Canada. The Canadian government's Competition Bureau also has an extensive working group that upholds a voluntary code of conduct for the labeling and advertising of pet food. The most important information when comparing one dog food to another is the guaranteed analysis. Ingredient lists are somewhat useful when evaluating a particular dog food, but it is important to recognize the limitations. Talk to you veterinarian about the ingredient list and nutrient profile to help choose the diet that is right for your dog.

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Feeding Your Dog Well - An Overview

The food you feed your dog is the largest factor you can control to give them optimal health. The diet formulation should change over your dog’s life as he moves through the different life stages of puppy, adult, and senior. The diet type can help manage or improve many medical conditions by feeding specific nutritional profiles. Your veterinarian is always ready to help you make the best nutritional choices for your dog.

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Anorexia in Dogs

A dog that is not wanting to eat or is not eating, is a dog who has a potentially life-threatening medical condition. Many conditions can lead to the inability of your dog to eat or for your dog to lose his appetite completely. It is important to find the underlying cause so that an appropriate treatment plan can be created. Appetite stimulants may be prescribed and in some cases a feeding tube may be placed by your veterinarian. Decreased food intake or any change in eating habits warrants investigation by your veterinarian.

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Anorexia in Cats

A cat that is not wanting to eat or is not eating, is a cat who has a potentially life-threatening medical condition. Many conditions can lead to the inability of your cat to eat or for your cat to lose her appetite completely. It is important to find the underlying cause so that an appropriate treatment plan can be created. Appetite stimulants may be prescribed and in some cases a feeding tube may be placed by your veterinarian. Decreased food intake or any change in eating habits warrants investigation by your veterinarian.

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Feeding Your Young Adult Dog

Once your dog reaches adulthood, his nutrient profile changes from when he was a puppy. Your veterinarian can help you determine what proportion of each nutrient is needed based on your dog’s lifestyle and current body condition. Avoid free-feeding and work on a meal schedule. Following these steps can help your dog lead a healthier life and avoid becoming overweight or obese.

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Feeding Your Young Adult Cat

Once your cat has reached adulthood, their nutrient profile will change from when they were a kitten. Your veterinarian can help you determine what proportion of each nutrient is needed based on your cat's lifestyle and current body condition. It is important to lay a good nutritional foundation to maximize the health and longevity for your cat and reduce the potential for developing obesity.

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Feeding Growing Kittens

The goal of feeding growing kittens is to lay the foundation for a healthy adulthood. Portion feeding is recommended to maintain a good body condition. Proper nutrition is critical to the health and development of kittens, regardless of breed, and it directly influences their immune system and body composition. An optimal growth rate in kittens is ideal; it is a slow and steady growth rate that allows the kitten to achieve an ideal adult body condition while avoiding excessive weight and obesity. Growing kittens need higher amounts of all nutrients in comparison to adult cats, but excess energy calories and calcium can create serious problems. Preventing obesity must begin during the weaning stage and continue through to adulthood and old age. Together with your veterinarian and veterinary healthcare team, you can help your kitten grow into as healthy of an adult cat as possible.

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Feeding Growing Puppies

The goal of feeding growing puppies is to lay the foundation for a healthy adulthood. Proper nutrition is critical to the health and development of puppies, regardless of breed, and it directly influences their immune system and body composition. An optimal growth rate in puppies is ideal; it is a slow and steady growth rate that allows the puppy to achieve an ideal adult body condition while avoiding excessive weight and obesity. Growing puppies need higher amounts of all nutrients in comparison to adult dogs, but excess energy calories and calcium can create serious problems. Together with your veterinarian and veterinary healthcare team, you can help your puppy grow into as healthy of an adult dog as possible.

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Feeding Orphaned Kittens

Orphaned kittens will need extra care for survival to compensate for the loss of their mother. Kittens must be kept warm, very clean, and fed frequently using an appropriate amount and type of formula by bottle or less often tube feeding. To ensure nutrition is adequate, daily weight checks should be performed for the first 4 weeks, then weekly thereafter. Kittens must be stimulated to urinate and defecate. Environment, feeding instruments, and the kitten must be kept meticulously clean as they are more susceptible to infection than kittens cared for by their mother.

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Feeding Orphaned Puppies

Orphaned puppies will need extra care for survival to compensate for the loss of their mother. Puppies must be kept warm, very clean, and fed frequently using an appropriate amount and type of formula by bottle or less often tube feeding. To ensure nutrition is adequate, daily weight checks should be performed for the first 4 weeks, then weekly thereafter. Puppies must be stimulated to urinate and defecate. Environment, feeding instruments and the puppy must be kept meticulously clean as they are more susceptible to infection than puppies cared for by their mother.

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Obesity in Dogs

Obesity is the most common preventable disease in dogs affecting up to 45% of the North American dog population. Obesity contributes to disease including diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, and cancer eventually causing a decreased lifespan. Obesity can be controlled with diet and exercise plans. Regular visits to the veterinarian for body condition assessment and weight checks are crucial to weight loss as is maintaining the recommended dietary intake.

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Obesity in Cats

Obesity is the most common preventable disease in cats affecting up to 50% of the North American cat population. Obesity contributes to disease including diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, and cancer causing a decreased lifespan. Obesity can be controlled with diet and exercise plans. Regular visits to the veterinarian for body condition assessment and weight checks are crucial to weight loss as is maintaining the recommended dietary intake.

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Feeding Mature and Senior Dogs

Diet changes need to be considered for senior dogs due to their changing energy requirements and medical conditions. Senior diets vary widely in nutrient profiles as there are no established standards. Recommendations for senior dog diets need to be based on clinical examination and discussion between veterinarian and owner. It is very important to ensure adequate water intake.

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Feeding Mature, Senior, and Geriatric Cats

Mature, senior, and geriatric cats often require different nutrition than adult cats due to their changing ability to digest nutrients and underlying medical conditions. Senior diets vary widely in nutrient profiles as there are yet no established standards. Recommendations for senior cat diets need to be based on clinical examination and discussion between veterinarian and owner. It is very important to ensure adequate water intake for senior cats.

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Dental Cleaning in Cats

Cleaning your cat’s teeth every day at home will help prevent plaque and tartar build-up. Use of a pet toothpaste is recommended, but even wiping a Q-tip across your cat’s teeth and gums goes a long way to reduce plaque and tartar accumulation. For proper dental evaluation and care, your cat must be safely placed under general anesthesia. The examination usually includes dental X-rays and probing to evaluate gum bleeding and periodontal pockets. Tooth scaling will be performed, using both hand and ultrasonic scalers, to remove tartar above and below the gum line.

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Dental Cleaning in Dogs

Plaque and tartar forms on teeth daily and if allowed to accumulate will cause progressive periodontal disease. Cleaning your dog’s teeth every day at home will help prevent plaque and tartar build-up. For proper dental evaluation and care, your dog must be safely placed under general anesthesia. The examination usually includes dental X-rays and probing to evaluate gum bleeding and periodontal pockets. Tooth scaling will be performed, using both hand and ultrasonic scalers, to remove tartar above and below the gum line. Removing plaque and tartar before disease occurs is the foundation of preventative dentistry.

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Halitosis in Cats

Bad breath (halitosis) is caused by bacteria, plaque, tartar, decomposing food particles, or death of tissue. Treatment of halitosis in cats involves eliminating the cause(s). The teeth need to be thoroughly cleaned and polished under general anesthesia. Teeth affected by advanced periodontal disease or tooth resorption need to be extracted. Reducing the accumulation of plaque, tartar, and resulting halitosis can be achieved by using VOHC accepted products.

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Halitosis in Dogs

Halitosis is caused by bacteria, plaque, and tartar. Once halitosis occurs, professional veterinary oral prevention, assessment, and treatment is needed. Teeth affected by advanced periodontal disease need to be extracted. Reducing the accumulation of plaque, tartar, and resulting halitosis can be achieved by using VOHC accepted products.

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The Importance of Dental X-rays in Cats

Dental X-rays in cats are similar to those taken in humans. In many cases, intraoral dental X-rays are necessary to identify and treat dental problems in your cat. Nearly two-thirds of each tooth is located under the gum line. Your cat will need to be anesthetized in order to accurately place the X-ray sensor and perform a thorough oral assessment, treatment, and prevention procedures.

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The Importance of Dental X-rays in Dogs

Dental X-rays in dogs are similar to those taken in humans. In many cases, intraoral dental X-rays are necessary to identify and treat dental problems in your dog. Nearly two-thirds of each tooth is located under the gum line. Your dog will need to be anesthetized in order to accurately place the X-ray sensor and perform a thorough oral assessment, treatment, and prevention procedures.

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What You Can Do for a Cat with Misalignment of Teeth (Malocclusion)

Cats can have misalignment of the teeth much like people. In people, orthodontic care can be used to perfect a pleasing smile or create a functional bite. In cats, the goal is to make the mouth functional and pain free. Often this involves moving, reducing the height of, or extracting teeth.

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What You Can do for a Dog with Misalignment of Teeth (Malocclusion)

Dogs can have misalignment of the teeth much like people. In people, orthodontic care can be used to perfect a pleasing smile or create a functional bite. In dogs, the goal is to make the mouth functional and pain free. Often this involves moving, reducing the height of, or extracting teeth.

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Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) or Dry Eye in Cats

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a condition that is also commonly referred to as dry eye. It is a common eye condition resulting from inadequate production of the aqueous portion of the tear film by the lacrimal gland or the third eyelid gland. Any condition that impairs the ability to produce adequate amounts of tear film can result in dry eye. Most cats with KCS have painful, red, and irritated eyes leading to squinting. The treatment of dry eye is to stimulate tear production and to replace tear film. The prognosis for cats diagnosed with KCS has never been better.

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Feeding the Pregnant Cat

Special attention needs to be given to a cat’s nutrition before and during her pregnancy to promote a healthy birth and healthy kittens. It is important to maintain a good body condition throughout pregnancy as her weight increases. A good quality kitten or all life stages diet is recommended during the entire pregnancy; ideally one evaluated using feeding trials. This diet is usually fed throughout the lactation period, but attention to body condition is essential here as well, and the diet may need to be restricted if there is a small number of kittens or the cat starts becoming overweight. Weaning is usually aided by feeding significantly less food for a few days while restricting access to nursing to decrease milk production.

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Indoor Cats and Infectious Disease

Vaccinations are important to prevent serious illness in cats. Even cats that spend 100% of their time indoors should be vaccinated. Some viruses can be carried into your home on inanimate objects such as shoes and clothing, therefore infecting your cat without her coming into contact with another animal. Rabies is deadly for both cats and humans and can be transmitted by a rabid bat that makes its way into your home. Your veterinarian is your most important resource in determining what vaccinations need to be given to your cat to keep her protected.

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Indoor Dogs and Infectious Disease

Vaccinations are important to prevent serious illness in dogs. Even dogs that spend 100% of their time indoors should be vaccinated. Some viruses can be carried into your home on inanimate objects such as shoes and clothing, therefore infecting your dog without him coming into contact with another animal. Rabies is deadly for both dogs and humans and can be transmitted by a rabid bat that makes its way into your home. Your veterinarian is your most important resource in determining what vaccinations need to be given to your dog to keep him protected.

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Road Trips and Car Travel With Your Cat

A successful road trip with a cat begins long before the day of travel. Teach your cat that the carrier is a great everyday place to hang out. Gather your cat’s medical documents to take with you and be sure to have your cat wear identification during travel. Take along a small supply of the litter she’s used and bring along water from home. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your cat if she does not travel well.

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Dog Treats

Treats are a great way to bond with your pet but can be a major contributor to obesity. Treats should be no more than 5-10% of your dog’s caloric intake as they add calories, and in greater quantities, can create a nutritional imbalance. Excellent treats that are low calorie and satisfying are vegetables such as green beans, broccoli, and cauliflower as well as air-popped popcorn. Many homemade treat recipes can be found on the internet, but be sure that these are not too high in calories or contain inappropriate ingredients for your individual dog. Check the recipe with your veterinarian before having your dog taste test them!

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Cat Treats

Treats are a great way to bond with your cat but can be a major contributor to obesity. Treats should be no more than 5-10% of your cat’s caloric intake as they add calories, and in greater quantities, can create a nutritional imbalance. Excellent treats that are low calorie and satisfying are vegetables such as green beans, broccoli, and cauliflower as well as air-popped popcorn. Many homemade treat recipes can be found on the internet but be sure that these are not too high in calories or contain inappropriate ingredients for your individual cat. Check the recipe with your veterinarian before having your cat taste test them!

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Cat Friendly Veterinary Practices

The American Association of Feline Practitioners is committed to advocating for excellence in healthcare for cats. The AAFP launched the Cat Friendly Practice program in 2012. They provide a specific pathway through which a veterinarian and veterinary healthcare team can objectively demonstrate their commitment to tailor their practice to the special needs of cats, as well as enhance the quality of care that cats receive in their practice. In order to earn the Cat Friendly Practice designation, a veterinary practice must demonstrate that they have taken specific steps to understand cats’ unique needs and have implemented feline-friendly standards of care. A Cat Friendly Practice is committed to making your cat’s healthcare delivery more pleasant for both you and your cat.

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Cat Only Veterinary Practices

A cat-only veterinary practice is typically designed and built with cat comfort in mind. Feline Practices are especially interested in delivering medical care to cats in ways that help the cat (and her human family members) experience as little stress as possible. Cats need to see their veterinarians for preventive care. It is recommended that cats be seen by their veterinarian twice per. You can make regular veterinary assessment as easy as possible for your cat by seeking out a cat only veterinary practice.

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Handling Exercises for Trimming Nails and Brushing Teeth

Many pets are sensitive to being restrained for grooming. With slow progress and highly positive rewards, your pet may learn that these are enjoyable activities.

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Microchipping Your Cat

The purpose of pet microchips is to provide a form of permanent identification. They are tiny, about the size of a grain of rice, and contain a unique identification number. Insertion is fast and painless. The microchip reader will detect the electronic code embedded in the chip and display the identification number on its screen. The registration database is then checked for this identification number (either online or by telephone), and the pet owner’s contact information is retrieved.

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Cats and the Perils of Outdoor Living

There are many potential hazards for cats who go or live outdoors compared to indoor cats. Fenced yards do not protect cats nor keep them contained to the yard. Other cats and wildlife can enter the yard and cause damage through fighting or attack. Although vaccines can be effective at preventing disease, there are many infections your cat can acquire outdoors that cannot be prevented, including FIV from cat bites, intestinal parasites, fleas, ticks and even lice. Cats can also be exposed to toxins through contact or ingesting poisoned rodents. They can be hit by cars or injured by humans who do not appreciate them. If you feel your cat must go outdoors, train them to wear a leash and harness and/or create a safe outdoor cat enclosure and monitor them at all times they are outdoors.

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Reducing the Stress of Veterinary Visits for Cats

For most cats, a visit to the veterinarian is an overwhelming experience. Veterinarians recommend the use of a carrier for travel because it is the safest and most secure way to transport pets. You can help your cat get over the fear of a carrier by developing positive associations between the carrier and positive experiences. Safety is the most important consideration when transporting your cat. One of the most effective ways to decrease your cat’s anxiety level is to remain calm and relaxed during the visit.

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Medication to Reduce the Stress of Veterinary Visits for Cats

For most cats, a visit to the veterinarian is an overwhelming experience. If your cat’s veterinary appointment is for a routine wellness examination, your veterinarian may prescribe a sedative or antianxiety medication. Natural medicines, also known as complementary therapies, cover a wide range of products including herbs, nutraceuticals, supplements, and homeopathic remedies and may be beneficial in treating your anxious cat. Products such as Feliway® and Rescue Remedy® are examples of natural therapies that may be helpful in reducing your cat’s stress. One of the most important ways to decrease your cat’s anxiety level is to remain calm and relaxed during the visit as this will help reassure your cat that she is safe.

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Recognizing the Signs of Illness in Cats

Cats have evolved to hide signs of illness and pain. This means that in the early stages of illness, often the only thing that a cat owner may notice is that the cat has become quiet and withdrawn. Cats that are ill will usually show changes in overall appearance, energy level, sociability, coat appearance and/or amount of shedding, appetite, litterbox usage, breathing, or discharges from the eyes or nose. In general, any sudden change should alert you that your cat needs veterinary attention. Because signs of illness can be very subtle, if your cat does not seem right to you, then it is best to err on the side of caution and to make an appointment see your veterinarian for an examination as soon as possible.

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Do Dogs See Color?

Knowing how and what your dog can see will help you make good choices for her. For example, you should keep your dog’s color range in mind when shopping for toys. She will enjoy yellow and blue toys more than red ones. And you’ll understand why she gets distracted during a game of fetch as she hones in on a bird flying 50 yards away. You’ll also know that to get her complete attention, you should stand directly in front of her where her range of visual acuity is greatest. And the next time you are lucky enough to be graced with a rainbow in the sky, rest assured that your dog can enjoy it, too. She will not see ALL the colors of the rainbow, but she may see a bit of yellow and blue. And that will be just fine for her!

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Feeding Times and Frequency for Your Dog

Feeding your dog can be easily accomplished with mealtimes on a set schedule. At least two meals per day are best for your dog. The use of food toys or interactive feeders adds interest to your dog’s mealtimes. Routines help your dog adjust to changes that may occur in your home as well as allow you to monitor his health.

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Taking the Stress out of Nail Trimming for Dogs

Following certain steps and offering rewards and praise instead of reprimands will put a positive spin on a dreaded task. This will help make nail trimming a more pleasant experience for both you and your dog. If all else fails, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian for further help.

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Essential Oil and Liquid Potpourri Poisoning in Cats

Many liquid potpourri products and essential oils, including oil of cinnamon, citrus, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, tea tree (melaleuca), wintergreen, and ylang ylang, are poisonous to cats. Both ingestion and skin exposure can be toxic.

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Why Dogs Lick Their Privates

Dogs are always going to lick but it is sometimes embarrassing when they lick their private parts in front of guests. Licking after eliminating is normal; however, if your dog licks more frequently or you notice other signs such as discharge, swollen or red penis, vulva, or anus, pustules, discoloration of the skin, or you observe your dog straining to urinate, see your veterinarian for help. Appropriate medical therapy can reduce your dog’s discomfort.

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Why Dogs Turn Around Before Lying Down

Turning around before bedtime has its origin mostly in evolutionary history where dog ancestors were practicing these habits for health or protection. These innate habits remain in their genetic code to this day, but if your dog is seeming to be doing it excessively, it could be a sign of underlying medical problems, such as arthritis or neurological disorders. Contact your veterinarian if your dog appears to have difficulty settling down.

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Food Intolerance in Dogs

Adverse food reactions in dogs are either caused by food allergy – an immune response to something ingested or food intolerance – a non-immunological response to something ingested. Signs of food intolerance are usually only digestive in nature. Food intolerance will generally occur on the initial exposure to the food or food additive in contrast to food allergy which requires repeated exposures to develop. Different causes of food intolerance include food poisoning, or inappropriate ingestion of an irritant, reaction to food additives, histamine reactions, lactose intolerance and dietary indiscretion such as eating fat or bones. A dietary history is important in diagnosing these conditions.

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Why Dogs Tilt Their Heads

Dogs tilting their heads is a functional necessity for them to be able to both see and hear better than when looking straight ahead. Different breeds may act differently based on ear and face shape. Sometimes a head tilt may be a sign of a medical problem especially if persistent or not associated with a given audible cue. If your dog cocks his head when there is no auditory stimulation, take him to see your veterinarian.

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Why Bones Are Not Safe for Dogs

Dogs were built to chew. That is a fact. Bones can lead to a number of health problems from minor injuries to severe illness. Our job as pet parents, is to provide them with chewing options that do not put them in jeopardy. Happy chewing!

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First Aid for Tail Injuries in Dogs

Tail injuries are common and can sometimes be managed with home first aid but some cases require veterinary care. Abrasions are mild scrapes that can be treated with daily cleaning and application of antibiotic ointment. Lacerations are more serious cuts that may expose underlying muscle and bone requiring stitches and often antibiotics. Happy tail is a condition where the skin at the end of the tail becomes damaged and continues to split and bleed whenever the wagging tail hits a hard surface. Bandaging, antibiotics and pain medication may help these heal but amputation may become necessary to reduce re-injury. Tail fractures can heal well if they occur near the tip of the tail but if bones are severely damaged then amputation may be required. Nerve damage can occur from fractures, crushing injuries or severe tail pulls causing stretching or tearing of the nerves and can result in loss of fecal and urinary continence and can also result in a limp tail. Limber tail is a painful muscle condition likely caused by overexertion and treated with rest and anti-inflammatories.

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Dogs and Gas

This handout discusses the causes and potential treatments for excess gas (flatus or flatulence) in dogs. Factors such as diet, speed of eating, exercise and foods to avoid are highlighted.

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Pyrethrin/Pyrethroid Poisoning in Cats

Pyrethrin insecticides are naturally derived from the chrysanthemum (mum) flower, and pyrethroids are the synthetic versions. The formulations of these products vary in concentration, synergists, and carriers depending on their intended use.

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First Aid for Broken Nails in Dogs

Broken nails are acute painful injuries that require first aid, and in some cases, a veterinary visit. Nails are made up of a collection of blood vessels and nerves covered by a hard protective layer of keratin. Bleeding should initially be controlled with pressure from gauze or a towel, followed by cauterizing powder if needed. Any remaining damaged part needs to be removed which usually requires veterinary care. Depending on the level of the break, your dog may need to be sedated and/or the area numbed with a nerve block prior to trimming the nail above the break. Depending on the severity, a bandage may be placed to protect the injury. Antibiotics and pain medications may be prescribed if indicated. Broken nails are best prevented by keeping all nails short through regular trimmings.

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First Aid for Insect Stings in Dogs

Insect stings or bites can cause mild signs of swelling, pain, and itching or can be more severe causing hives, anaphylactic reactions, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures. If the sting or bite has been observed, look for the insect or spider to allow identification. Look for a stinger and carefully remove it without squeezing more venom out of the venom sac. Depending on the severity of the reaction, first aid including cool packing the area, dosing with oral antihistamine, and prevention of self-trauma may be all that is needed; however, in more severe cases emergency veterinary attention is required to stabilize the dog, screen for organ dysfunction, and provide supportive care.

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Why Does My Veterinarian Charge So Much?

Running a veterinary clinic has a lot of overhead and behind the scenes cost that many pet owners aren't aware of. Human healthcare is far more expensive and less efficient than you realize. Plan ahead and take preventative steps to help reduce treating costly problems.

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First Aid for Falls in Dogs

Dogs that fall from heights can suffer sprains, broken bones, head trauma, and chest or abdominal injuries. Small dogs can incur the same degree of injury falling from much smaller distances. Toy breeds have been known to break one or both legs when simply jumping down from the sofa.

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First Aid for Limping Dogs

Although most limps need veterinary attention, there are a few first aid measures you can perform at home if your dog is hobbling around.

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Acupuncture/Acupressure for Dogs

New medical advancements are extraordinary, yet many veterinarians are turning to a form of ancient medicine to help their patients. Utilizing centuries-old techniques of acupuncture and acupressure may enhance traditional veterinary medicine and further benefit the canine community.

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Preparing Your Puppy for a Lifetime of Good Hygiene

Good hygiene takes practice, but starting early will make keeping your pup clean easier for his entire life. You can start some of these jobs shortly after your puppy arrives home. Be sure to keep a calm voice and use food rewards as positive conditioning to make it a positive experience.

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Preparing for Your Dog's First Veterinary Visit

Next to you, the second most important person in a dog’s life is your veterinarian. Before actually going to the veterinary hospital, take practice car rides and be sure to properly restrain your dog in the car by placing him in a crate or harness. The very first visit to your veterinary clinic should be a fun introduction to a new place. When the actual appointment occurs, your dog will be checked in by the receptionist and the technician will gather vital information. Your veterinarian will then perform a comprehensive physical examination and give recommendations that are best for your dog.

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Preventive Health Care Guidelines for Dogs

Taking advantage of proper preventive care can help your dog live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Annual exams are a vital part of your dog's health and allow your veterinarian to check over your pet and allow you to have an open dialogue about possible health concerns.

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First Aid for Hot Spots in Dogs

Hot spots are inflamed and often painful lesions that your dog may develop for a variety of reasons. Treatment is relatively simple and may include the use of topical or oral steroids, antihistamines, bandaging the area, and using an E-collar to prevent further licking or chewing. If hot spots recur, it is important to determine the underlying cause. Seasonal grooming, regular brushing, and bathing can help prevent hot spots from developing.

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Abscesses in Dogs

Abscesses are firm or compressible, often painful swellings that contain pus. They can develop in many areas of the body including around tooth roots, anal glands, under the skin, or in the liver. Abscesses are caused by the introduction of bacteria through wounds, injuries, or bloodborne in the case of an internal organ abscess. Any area of the body that becomes infected can eventually cause an abscess to form such as anal gland abscess, bite wound abscess, prostatic abscess, or brain abscess from inner ear or sinus infection. Treatment depends on severity and location and usually involves removal of the pus either through drainage or surgical removal, the use of antibiotics based on the type of bacteria and location of the abscess, and pain control medications. Monitoring after initiating treatment includes watching the site for additional drainage if the abscess was superficial or monitoring the pet for improvement of clinical signs. Delayed treatment of abscesses can lead to chronic draining tracts or worse.

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The Pros and Cons of Invisible Fences for Dogs

Keeping a dog appropriately confined keeps him safe by preventing mishaps associated with free roaming. Fenced-in dogs are less likely to be hit by vehicles, have fewer aggressive interactions with other dogs, have decreased exposure to contagious diseases, and are less available to pet thieves. There are advantages and disadvantages to electric fences and the choice of fencing is one that takes research and careful consideration.

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Specialty Grooming for Dogs

Cutting a dog's hair is a matter of good hygiene as much as good style, but there are some spa treatments that can be problematic. Seeking the help of a professional might be the best option for the owner who wants a snazzy-but-healthy dog.

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Social Groups for Dogs

Dogs, like people, need to practice their social skills. Spending time with other dogs will help your dog hone his ability to read his friends’ body language and to communicate effectively. These skills decrease the development of dog related fear and aggression. Play groups in an organized or more relaxed setting are beneficial for both your growing puppy and adult dog. Canine and human socialization occur simultaneously and dog owners enjoy meeting new friends, too. Watching dogs play is a great way to reduce your stress level. Socializing should be pleasant for you and your dog, so find a comfortable group and setting and have fun!

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Why Dogs Chase Their Tails

Dogs chasing their own tail can be amusing but also a sign of a bigger problem. Dogs that are left alone for extended periods may get bored or may not be getting enough exercise and to release all that pent-up energy, they chase their tails. Young pups chew their tails as they become aware of their body parts and is usually a passing phase. Older dogs however, may chew their tails when mental acuity diminishes. If your dog suddenly starts chasing or biting at his tail, schedule a veterinary visit, as the cause could be medical in nature (internal or external parasites, an injury, impacted anal glands, or a neurological problem).

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Why Do Dogs Bury Bones?

Burying of toys or food items by dogs goes back thousands of years as a means of preserving food and storing valuable or scarce food resources. Dogs in today's world do it out of ancestral habit and as a means of resource protection. If you notice that your dog seems to be digging compulsively, contact your veterinarian.

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The Benefits of Walking Your Dog

Walking with your dog is one of the best ways to keep them – and you - healthy. It can help maintain good body condition and healthy weight, improve joint, urinary tract, mental, and emotional health. Dogs do not achieve the same health benefits by being let out into the yard. Walking your dog is incredibly healthy for you as well, helping to manage obesity and encouraging increased exercise. If you are not already walking with your dog, start slowly and make it part of your routine. Soon your dog will be reminding you it is time for a walk.

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Running with Your Dog

Dogs are great exercise partners. They are always available, they have energy to burn, and they aren't in a bad mood from a stressful day at work. Plus, approximately 50% of American dogs are overweight and need to work off a few calories.

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Dog Walking Safety Tips

To enjoy a long walk with your dog there are many things you should consider. Discuss your dog’s exercise plan with your veterinarian to ensure it is not too taxing for him. Have a short 4-6 foot strong leash and properly fitted harness, collar, or headcollar. Review basic obedience commands before heading out so your dog will be more likely to listen if distracted. Dress comfortably yourself, and make sure your pet is comfortable in extreme temperatures with protective boots. Be prepared with pet waste bags in order to clean up after your dog. Carry water for both you and your dog and make sure you both have identification should you become separated or have an accident. Make sure to warm up before and cool down after a more vigorous walk. Check your dog’s paws after a walk for injuries, burs, or insects such as ticks. Their paws can also be wiped with a wet cloth if they have walked on the beach or snowy paths.

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Dog Sports---Dock Diving

Dogs love to run. Dogs love to jump. Dogs love to swim. If your dog likes to do all three, why not investigate the relatively-new canine sport of Dock Diving?

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Dog Sports---Field Trials

Field trials focus on team-hunting and allow humans and their pet dogs to rekindle their hunting instincts in a fun, competitive format.

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Dog Sports - Flyball

On your marks, get set, go! Dogs running, jumping, catching balls, making razor sharp turns, and racing to a finish line; that's the canine sport of flyball.

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Showing Dogs

Is your dog lovable, smart, and obedient? Is she/he also really good-looking? If you want others to know just how great your dog is, perhaps you should consider showing them off!

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Rabbits as Pets

Rabbits can make wonderful pets for those willing to understand their unique characteristics and needs. They are very intelligent and always adorable, but require special handling and more supervision than some other pet species. As it is with all pets, though, rabbits require a healthy diet, lots of activity, social interaction, and routine veterinary care to live happy and healthy lives.

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Preparing Your Pets for Winter

Winter cold weather poses a number of risks for our pets. Antifreeze commonly used in winter is extremely toxic if ingested. Cold damp weather can be very harmful so dogs should ideally be kept inside most of the time during the winter. If this is not possible, dogs need a raised shelter large enough to be comfortable but small enough to retain heat. Extra calories are needed for outdoor dogs to keep warm. Paws can be affected by frostbite, as well as ice or damaging ice melt compounds. Feet should be checked and wiped after being outside. Rabbits should be maintained at constant temperatures as they are not able to handle the differences between indoor and outdoor temperatures in winter.

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Why Cats Turn Around Before Lying Down

Turning around before bedtime has its origin mostly in evolutionary history where cat ancestors were practicing these habits for health or protection. These innate habits remain in their genetic code to this day but if your cat is seeming to be doing it excessively, it could be a sign of underlying medical problems, such as arthritis of neurological disorders. Contact your veterinarian if your cat appears to have difficulty settling down.

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Holiday Toxins for Pets

While the holidays bring more challenges to the already difficult winter months, we can't forget about indoor and outdoor toxins frequently seen at this time of year. Keeping your pets healthy and safe will help keep the holidays stress free.

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Feeding a Cat Who is a Glutton

Cat food has been made so palatable that it can easily create gluttonous behavior. Meal feeding and portion control are important to prevent obesity. Owners should not give in to begging behavior. Cats that are still hungry after their meal can be supplemented with snacks such as green vegetables recommended by your veterinarian. Cats that eat too quickly can be fed creatively to slow down eating.

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Hunting With Your Dog

This handout outlines the recommended steps to train and condition your dog for taking your dog hunting. It discusses the two main types of hunting dogs (hounds and gun dogs). Recommendations on what to ask your veterinarian before taking your dog hunting are also included.

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First Aid for Torn Footpads in Cats

Although lowly in position, your cat's feet occupy a top spot in importance. How can a cat navigate the world without the support of four healthy feet? Healthy foot pads are crucial, so injuries need prompt attention.

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First Aid for Falls in Cats

Even though cats usually land on their feet, they can still sustain injuries when they fall.

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Feeding Times and Frequency for Your Cat

Feeding your cat can be easily accomplished with mealtimes on a set schedule. At least two meals per day are best for your cat. The use of food toys or interactive feeders adds interest to your cat’s mealtime. Routines help your cat adjust to changes that may occur in your home as well as allow you to monitor her health.

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Preparing Your Cat for a Trip to the Veterinarian

Preparing your cat to travel to the vet is one of the most important investments you can make during the lifespan of your cat. Cats should visit the veterinary hospital at least once yearly. The smoother the experience goes, the least amount of stress both you and your cat will experience.

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Ulcerative Keratitis in Cats

Ulcerative keratitis is a kind of inflammation that occurs in the cornea of the eye. Some breeds seem to develop them more commonly, particularly Himalayan, Persian, and Burmese cats. The signs of ulcerative keratitis depend somewhat on the cause and how long the condition has been present. There are many potential causes of ulcerative keratitis, including trauma, infection, and abnormal tear production. Antibiotic ointment or drops will be prescribed, and it is important to prevent additional trauma to the cornea. Superficial corneal ulcers typically heal within 5 to 7 days.

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First Aid for Limping Cats

Although most limps need veterinary attention, there are a few first aid measures you can perform at home if your cat begins to hobble around.

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First Aid for Broken Nails in Cats

Broken nails are acute painful injuries that require first aid, and in some cases, a veterinary visit. Nails are made up of a collection of blood vessels and nerves covered by a hard protective layer of keratin. Bleeding should initially be controlled with pressure from gauze or a towel, followed by cauterizing powder if needed. Any remaining damaged part needs to be removed which usually requires veterinary care. Depending on the level of the break, your cat may need to be sedated and/or the area numbed with a nerve block prior to trimming the nail above the break. Depending on the severity, a bandage may be placed to protect the injury. Antibiotics and pain medications may be prescribed if indicated. Broken nails are best prevented by keeping all nails short through regular trimmings.

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Pythiosis in Dogs

Pythiosis is a waterborne infection that can infect the GI tract or skin of dogs. It can cause extreme weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea or skin lesions such as ulcerating nodules and draining tracts. This disease is more common in southern regions. Treatment involves surgical removal of all affected material if possible, including limb amputation if indicated. Different antifungal therapies have shown some efficacy and need to be continued longterm. Prognosis for resolution of pythiosis is guarded to poor.

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Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications That Can be Safe for Dogs

Some over-the-counter medications can be used in a pinch for short-term treatment of common ailments in dogs. Consult with your veterinarian before using any over-the-counter medication to determine the correct dose and ensure that they will not interact with other medications your dog is taking. Some medications are toxic. If the condition you are treating does not respond to treatment contact your veterinarian.

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A Cleaner, Greener Home for Your Pets

There are many environmentally friendly ways that owners can care for their pets. Waste disposal can involve biodegradable or compostable bags or careful composting. Cat litter can be transitioned to recycled newspaper or sawdust pellets. Any toys, beds, houses and other accessories can be biodegradable and/or recycled such as cotton or rubber. Cats should be kept indoors to reduce their impact on the ecology of their surrounding environment. A nutritionally adequate diet composed of organic food can be provided.

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Why Cats Lick Their Privates

Cats are always going to lick but it is sometimes embarrassing when they lick their private parts. Licking after eliminating is normal; however, if your cat licks more frequently or you notice other signs such as discharge, swollen or red penis, vulva, or anus, pustules, discoloration of the skin, or you observe your cat straining to urinate, see your veterinarian for help. Appropriate medical therapy can reduce your cat’s discomfort.

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Preventive Health Care Guidelines for Cats

Taking advantage of proper preventive care can help your cat live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Annual exams are a vital part of your cat's health and allow your veterinarian to check over your pet and allow you to have an open dialogue about possible health concerns.

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Acetaminophen Toxicity in Dogs

Acetaminophen, a common human drug used to control pain and fever, is toxic in dogs. Acetaminophen is occasionally recommended by veterinarians and should only be given under their direction. Young and small dogs have a higher risk for toxicity.  

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First Aid for Insect Stings in Cats

Insect stings or bites can cause mild signs of swelling, pain, and itching or can be more severe causing hives, anaphylactic reactions, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures. If the bite or sting has been observed, look for the insect or spider to allow identification. Look for a stinger and remove it carefully without squeezing more venom out of the venom sac. Depending on the severity of the reaction, first aid including cool packing the area, dosing with oral antihistamine, and prevention of self-trauma may be all that is needed; however, in more severe cases emergency veterinary attention is required to stabilize the cat, screen for organ dysfunction, and provide supportive care.

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Proper Etiquette at the Dog Park

Many dogs love to get out to socialize and exercise with their canine friends and dog parks are their go-to spots for getting together. Proper etiquette, from both you and your pup, will allow everyone to enjoy the park safely and courteously.

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Cats, Nutrition, and Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common problem affecting cats of all age groups. The importance of daily dental home care cannot be overemphasized. Nutrition can contribute to preventing periodontal disease and gingivitis.

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First Aid for Tail Injuries in Cats

Tail injuries are common and can sometimes be managed with home first aid but some cases require veterinary care. Abrasions are mild scrapes that can be treated with daily cleaning and application of antibiotic ointment. Lacerations are more serious cuts that may expose underlying muscle and bone requiring stitches and often antibiotics. Tail fractures can heal well if they occur near the tip of the tail but if bones are severely damaged then amputation may be required. Nerve damage can occur from fractures, crushing injuries or severe tail pulls causing stretching or tearing of the nerves and can result in loss of fecal and urinary continence and can also result in a limp tail.

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Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs (Cervical spondylomyopathy)

Wobbler syndrome is a disease of the neck (the cervical spine) that is seen in large and giant breeds of dog. These dogs experience compression of the spinal cord and the spinal nerve roots, resulting in nervous system deficits and/or neck pain,

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Feeding Inactive Adult Cats

Over 60% of cats in North America are either overweight or obese, so paying attention to the balance between activity and calorie intake is important. Nutrient formulation and portion control are the two most important aspects of weight control. Once you have chosen a formula and have calculated a reasonable daily portion based on calorie density, the best way to stay on track and prevent unwanted weight gain is to combine portion control with regular, formal weigh-ins.

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Acetaminophen Toxicity in Cats

Acetaminophen is a medication that is used to treat fever and/or pain in humans. Cats have a genetic deficiency in a metabolic pathway in the liver that makes cats vulnerable to acetaminophen toxicity.

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Caffeine Toxicity in Pets

Pet owners may not realize that caffeine can be harmful to their pets. They also may not know that many foods and drinks in their cupboards contain caffeine. This particular chemical can be toxic for both cats and dogs.

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E-cigarettes and Pet Safety

Even though e-cigarettes may be safer for humans than using traditional tobacco products, they are certainly not safe for pets. The nicotine associated with e-cigarettes, even without the tobacco, poses a serious health threat for dogs and cats.

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Avoiding Raw Food in Cats

Feeding raw food to cats is potentially dangerous to both your cat and to you, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA. With nearly 25% of the raw food samples testing positive for harmful bacteria, the health risks for cats who eat the raw food, as well as for the cat owners who handle the food while preparing it, are real. It is reasonable to conclude that a commercially prepared, conventional, complete and life-stage balanced ration is a better choice.

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Giving Your Dog a Thorough Home Check-up

This handout describes the benefits of performing examinations at home between regularly scheduled veterinary visits. It outlines the different parts of the body to examine, how to examine and what to look for as abnormals.

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Taking Your Pet's Temperature

Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101 to 102.5°F (38.3 to 39.2°C). Pets with temperatures above 104°F (40.0°C) or falls below 99°F (37.2°C) need immediate veterinary care. Temperature can be taken rectally or aurally. If taking your pet’s temperature is too difficult, take your pet to your veterinarian. If your pet’s temperature remains high or low, take him to your veterinarian.

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Summer Toxins to Avoid with Your Pet

Summer is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy nature and the warm sunshine, especially with your pet. Pets are inquisitive creatures and love to investigate their surroundings. Unfortunately, this trait can lead pets down the path of injury and illness. The following information will help you to avoid many summer dangers that can affect your pet.

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How Old is Old? Comparing Dog Age to Human Age

Comparing your human age to your furry friend's canine age is rather complicated, but, simply put, one year to Fido is not one year to you.

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Cannabis (Marijuana) Intoxication in Cats and Dogs

Cats and dogs can become intoxicated by cannabis in various ways, most commonly by eating edibles (e.g., baked goods, candies, chocolate bars, and chips containing cannabis), or by ingesting cannabis directly (in any form). Pets can also be exposed to second-hand smoke. A small amount may affect one pet more than another, so there is no official safe level of exposure. Many of the signs of intoxication are neurological, including disorientation, dilated pupils, and hyperactivity. In severe cases, tremors, seizures, and coma can result. Regardless of the method of exposure, accurate and complete information from the owner is imperative to treat the patient successfully.

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Food Intolerance in Cats

Adverse food reactions in cats are either caused by food allergy – an immune response to something ingested or food intolerance – a non-immunological response to something ingested. Signs of food intolerance are generally digestive in nature only. Food intolerance will generally occur on the initial exposure to the food or food additive in contrast to food allergy which requires repeated exposures to develop. Different causes of food intolerance include food poisoning, or inappropriate ingestion of an irritant, reaction to food additives, histamine reactions, lactose intolerance and dietary indiscretion such as eating fat or bones. A dietary history is important in diagnosing these conditions.

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The Differences between Brand Name and Generic Medications

A brand name medication is the first of its kind and gets to brand the name. However, there may be differences between brand name and generic drugs. Although the active ingredient must be the same as the original drug, generics may include different inactive ingredients such as preservatives or fillers.

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The Effects of Secondhand Smoke on Pets

Secondhand smoke is not just detrimental to people but also our pets and animal friends. In fact, they are likely more sensitive due to their enhanced smell and different anatomy and physiology. Cancer risks are significantly higher in pets and should be a motivation to help you quit smoking.

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Deciphering "Medicalese"

If you think your veterinary health care providers are speaking a foreign language, you are not alone. If you don't quite grasp everything you hear or read, don't feel like you're illiterate. Deciphering medicalese can be tough!

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Fear Free for Dogs

Many pet owners decline to take their dogs for regular veterinary care because they perceive that their dogs resent and fear the visits. Fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) are rooted in responses to stressful events, and result in both physiologic and behavioral changes. Fortunately, there are many things that can be done on behalf of dogs who experience FAS around their visits to the veterinarian. Once you arrive at your veterinary clinic, the practice team will help to create a Fear Free experience for him and for you.

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Cautions Associated with Internet Pharmacies

Online shopping for convenience and great prices has quickly become the new normal in today's consumerism society. Although technology may help us be savvy shoppers, it's still good to be cautious about what you purchase online, especially when it comes to your pet's medications.

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Body Condition Scores

Body condition scoring is an effective objective method of determining if a pet is at a healthy weight. There are 2 scoring systems: one out of 5 and the other out of 9. This handout outlines how to body condition score pets and recommends tracking body condition score to keep pets at a healthy weight, an important factor in pets living longer with less health complications.

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Fear Free for Cats

Many pet owners decline to take their cats for regular veterinary care because they perceive that their cats resent and fear the visits. Fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) are rooted in responses to stressful events, and result in both physiologic and behavioral changes. Fortunately, there are many things that can be done on behalf of cats who experience FAS around their visits to the veterinarian. Once you arrive at your veterinary clinic, the practice team will help to create a Fear Free experience for her and for you.

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Home Breathing Rate Evaluation

An increase in your pet’s breathing rate while resting quietly or sleeping is an early clinical sign that your pet may be developing heart failure and needs to see your veterinarian. In general, all normal dogs and cats have a breathing rate of between 15-30 breaths per minute when they are resting. Resting breathing rates that are consistently greater than 30 breaths per minute are increased and considered abnormal. One breath is counted when the chest has moved in and out once. Typically, your veterinarian will have you count the breathing rate once per day for a week while you are learning and then will set up a schedule depending on your pet’s heart health status.

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Finding Reliable Internet Sources for Pet Care Information

This handout discusses how to find reliable information for your pet on the internet. Recommendations are to always seek out trusted sources, such as your own veterinary clinic, veterinary schools, and those sites with content written by veterinarians. Try to avoid sites offering homemade cures, are heavily weighted with opinions, or offer prescription medications without requiring a veterinarian’s prescription.

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Halloween Safety for Pets

Halloween is an annual event that most children, and lots of adults too, look forward to enthusiastically and anticipate a day and evening filled with masks, candy, and pranks all year long! But this holiday can be particularly spooky for the furry children in your family. To make Halloween fun for all of your family members take note of a few Halloween safety tips for your pet.

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Health Registries for Pets

This handout outlines the various health registries in existence that strive to improve the health of dogs and cats. Included in this list are the Canine Health Information Center, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Companion Animal Eye Registry, Animal Registry of Certified Health, and the Cat Phenotype and Health Information Registry. Also discussed are canine breed-specific registries, along with the National Pet Microchip Registration.

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Multidrug Resistance Mutation (MDR1)

Many herding breeds (most commonly Collies and Australian Shepherds) have a mutation at the MDR1 gene that makes them more sensitive to the negative effects of certain medications. These drugs include several antiparasitic agents (when given at high doses), the antidiarrheal agent loperamide (Imodium®), and several anticancer drugs. The effects of the mutation vary in severity, depending on whether the dog carries one or two copies of the mutation. There is a commercially-available test that assesses blood samples or a cheek swab for the presence of the MDR1 mutation.

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Managing Feral Cats

Feral cats are fiercely independent and survive (but may not thrive) without the help of humans. They avoid people and hide, back away, or flee when they spot humans. Lack of immunization, parasite control, adequate nutrition, and hygiene put feral cats at risk of many life-threatening problems. TNR (Trap, Neuter, and Release) programs are the hallmark of controlling feral cat populations.

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Sources for Adopting Pets

There are lots of ways to find adoptable pets, and large or small, local or national, online resources and shelters have the same goal: match available pets with the most suitable homes. Social media has helped find homes for countless dogs and cats. Well-developed websites that are updated frequently and actively used by rescue groups and humane societies make shopping for a pet online a fruitful experience. Shelters are another great option if you want to see many pets at one time.

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Pet Sitter Options

A pet sitter is like a babysitter for pets. And like good babysitters, good pet sitters don't just sit in a chair watching your fur babies. They interact, exercise, feed and water them. Pet sitters take care of your pet in your home, but can do much much more.

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Factors to Consider in Pet Selection - Dogs

Getting a dog is a long-term commitment. Before choosing a pet, consider initial and recurring costs, home environment, size, temperament, and physical characteristics of the dog. Consider training, exercising, and grooming needs, along with your lifestyle.

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Proper Disposal of Medical Waste

Medical waste includes needles, syringes, body parts, bodily fluids, feces and medications among other things. This handout addresses some of the ways such waste can be safely disposed.

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Responsible Cat Ownership

While cats are more independent than dogs and do well when left alone, they still require the basics such as shelter, clean water and food, mental and physical stimulation, and regular health checks with a veterinarian. As long as you understand what your cat expects of you and are willing to be of service, it should be a long happy relationship.

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Responsible Pet Ownership--Dogs

Dogs can do lots of things. They fetch the paper. They patrol airports for illegal substances. They guide the visually impaired safely across busy intersections. Dogs do many remarkable things for us. But they aren't capable of doing much for themselves. Responsible dog ownership includes many responsibilities that should be taken into consideration when deciding to adopt a pet.

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Safe Handling of Medications at Home

Does your home double as a drug store? Do you have medications stashed in the bathroom cabinet, kitchen drawer and pantry shelf? Are random bottles haphazardly tossed into the pharmacy?Here are a few tips to help you safely handle your household medicine inventory.

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How Do I Know if My Dog is in Pain?

Since dogs are living longer and longer, they are also experiencing the deterioration and debilitation that goes along with aging. This includes the development of osteoarthritis. No one is in a better position to identify the subtle changes in behavior that may signal pain than human family members. You may observe changes in the following: vocalization, daily activities, daily habits, facial expressions, or posture. Your dog may show uncharacteristic behavior to other pets or family members. If you notice any of these changes, contact your veterinarian.

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Nutritional Requirements of Large and Giant Breed Puppies

Not all puppy foods are alike. Not all pups are alike. Feeding the right diet to the right puppy is very important, especially when it comes to large or giant breed pups.

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How Do I Know if My Cat is in Pain?

Since cats are living longer and longer, they are also experiencing the deterioration and debilitation that goes along with aging. This includes the development of osteoarthritis. No one is in a better position to identify the subtle changes in behavior that may signal pain than human family members. You may observe changes in the following: vocalization, daily activities, daily habits, facial expressions, or posture. Your cat may show uncharacteristic behavior to other pets or family members. If you notice any of these changes, contact your veterinarian.

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Porcupine Quills in Dogs and Their Dangers

Porcupines are the third largest rodent and live in many rural areas in North America. They are not aggressive, but they happily defend themselves, their offspring, and their dens if needed. Porcupine quills can puncture the skin and move through muscle, ultimately penetrating into body cavities and internal organs. Do not cut quills; cutting the shaft makes the quill splinter more easily which ultimately makes it harder to remove. Do not attempt to remove quills yourself. Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog is quilled. Sedation or anesthesia is required to remove quills safely. The best defense against porcupine quills is prevention. Avoid allowing the dogs to roam at dusk or after dark.

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Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) Gene Mutation

In 2016, researchers identified a gene, called the pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) gene, that contributes to obesity in Labrador Retrievers. A specific mutation of this gene, involving the deletion of 14 DNA base pairs, has been shown to contribute to increased body weight, increased body fat percentages, and increased food motivation in Labrador Retrievers.

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Arthritis and Nutrition for Cats

Approximately 20% of cats across all ages suffer from painful osteoarthritis in one or more joints. The incidence of osteoarthritis increases with age. Because cats are living longer, it is more likely than ever that every cat owner will face the issue of osteoarthritis at some point.

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Puppy - Recommendations for New Owners Part II - General Care

This handout provides general information on feeding and training your puppy, nail care, and hiccupping.

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Post-Operative Instructions in Dogs

After arriving at home, you should keep your dog warm and comfortable by providing a soft clean bed, ideally in a quiet and draft-free room at a comfortable room temperature. For most procedures, your dog's activity should be restricted for one full week after surgery. Some dogs experience nausea after general anesthesia, so dividing meals into smaller portions may decrease the risk of nausea and vomiting.

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Acne in Dogs

Canine acne is an inflammatory disorder of the lips and the skin of the muzzle. Dogs with mild cases of acne often have red bumps or pustules on their skin. This can, in more severe cases, lead to generalized swelling of the lips and muzzle, bleeding wounds, or scabs on the face. Commonly affected breeds include Boxers, English Bulldogs, Great Danes, German Shorthaired Pointers, and others. A variety of treatments are available and depend on the underlying cause of the acne.

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Instructions for Ear Cleaning and Administering Ear Medication in Dogs

This handout discusses the anatomy of the dog’s ear canal, how to safely clean your dog’s ears to prevent ear infections, and how to apply topical ear medications if needed.

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Instructions for Ear Cleaning and Administering Ear Medication in Cats

This handout discusses the anatomy of the cat’s ear canal, how to safely clean your cat’s ears to prevent ear infections, and how to apply topical ear medications if needed.

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Penrose Drain Discharge Instructions for Cats

A Penrose drain is a latex tube that is placed into a wound with one or two ends exiting the skin, allowing fluids to drain from the wound. The Penrose drain is designed to passively remove unwanted fluid, usually when treating abscesses or open wounds. Drains should be removed as soon as possible, usually within 2-4 days. Larger wounds may take longer. Once the drain and all the sutures have been removed, your cat can return to normal activities unless directed otherwise by your veterinarian.

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Penrose Drain Discharge Instructions for Dogs

A Penrose drain is a latex tube that is placed into a wound with one or two ends exiting the skin, allowing fluids to drain from the wound. The Penrose drain is designed to passively remove unwanted fluid, usually when treating abscesses or open wounds. Drains should be removed as soon as possible, usually within 2-4 days. Larger wounds may take longer. Once the drain and all the sutures have been removed, your dog can return to normal activities unless directed otherwise by your veterinarian.

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Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS)

Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) causes blindness in older dogs, most often females. The underlying cause of SARDS is unknown and there is no effective treatment for the condition. This handout explains the clinical signs observed in affected dogs, how the condition is diagnosed, and how to support a dog with SARDS.

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Exercising Your Cat for Weight Loss

Obesity occurs when a cat is consuming more calories than it expends. Therefore, managing obesity in cats often requires both dietary changes and increases in exercise/activity. There are a number of methods for increasing activity in cats, including play, the use of cat trees and climbing structures, outdoor leash-walks, and intentional active feeding practices. Each of these can be beneficial in promoting weight loss.

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Helping our Senior Cats Age Gracefully

Senior cats need extra care and monitoring to ensure they are enjoying a good quality of life. As cats age, many chronic diseases can develop that can be managed quite well if they are diagnosed and treated early. The best care is achieved through a cooperative relationship between the pet owner and veterinary team.

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Helping our Senior Dogs Age Gracefully

Senior dogs need extra care and monitoring to ensure they are enjoying a good quality of life. As dogs age, many chronic diseases can develop that can be managed quite well if they are diagnosed and treated early. The best care is achieved through a cooperative relationship between the pet owner and veterinary team.

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Vulvoplasty (Episioplasty)

Vulvoplasty, also known as episioplasty, is a surgical procedure that your veterinarian may recommend to correct a conformational issue known as a recessed vulva. Your veterinarian will remove a crescent-shaped piece of tissue from above the vulva, allowing the skin to be pulled upwards into a more normal conformation. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Your pet will be intubated with an endotracheal tube. After surgery, you will need to give pain medications and antibiotics as directed and keep your dog confined/restricted for approximately two weeks. Skin sutures, if used, can typically be removed 10-14 days after surgery.

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How to Bathe Dogs with Medicated Shampoo

Medicated shampoos may be prescribed for a variety of skin conditions. These baths should be performed in an area that is comfortably warm, using lukewarm water. Medicated shampoo should be applied to a clean, wet coat, so start out by thoroughly rinsing your dog with lukewarm water. Shampoo should be worked into the coat thoroughly and allowed to sit for 10 minutes prior to rinsing, unless directed otherwise by your veterinarian.

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How to Bathe Cats with Medicated Shampoo

Medicated shampoos may be prescribed for a variety of skin conditions. These baths should be performed in an area that is comfortably warm, using lukewarm water. Medicated shampoo should be applied to a clean, wet coat, so start out by thoroughly rinsing your cat with lukewarm water. Shampoo should be worked into the coat thoroughly and allowed to sit for 10 minutes prior to rinsing, unless directed otherwise by your veterinarian.

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Preanesthetic Bloodwork

Preanesthetic bloodwork is an important step in the evaluation of pets undergoing anesthesia or surgical procedures. Bloodwork can help diagnose a variety of internal disorders, many of which could negatively affect your pet’s anesthetic and surgical safety. By diagnosing and treating any underlying medical disorders before surgery/anesthesia, your veterinarian can make anesthesia as safe as possible for your pet.

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Fractured Teeth in Cats

Fractured teeth in cats can result from fights, car accidents, and chewing on hard objects. There are five classifications of tooth fractures and each needs treatment to avoid tooth sensitivity and pain. Because cats have thin enamel, even a small chip fracture can cause pain and needs veterinary care. Clinical signs include chewing on one side of the mouth, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, and facial swelling.

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Fractured Teeth in Dogs

Dogs often break their teeth from chewing on bones, antlers, and hard chew toys. There are five classifications of tooth fractures ranging from enamel fractures to tooth root fractures. Clinical signs can include chewing on one side of the mouth, excessive drooling, dropping food while eating, pawing at the mouth, and facial swelling. A broken tooth needs attention to prevent infection and pain. Your veterinarian may perform root canal or extract the tooth. Eliminating hard chew toys and treats can prevent tooth fractures.

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Pet Monitoring: Keeping Track of Your Pet's Tracks and More

Monitoring your pet is important to his health. That is why you watch your furry friends so closely. Using a monitoring device can provide information about your pet’s activity level that can help keep him in shape, detect early signs of medical problems, or aid in recovery from existing problems. GPS monitors can facilitate the location of lost pets. Since available monitors cover a large range of capabilities, it is helpful to consider your pet’s needs before choosing one.

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Veterinary Care for Mini-Pigs

Just like other pets, mini-pigs should have a complete veterinary check-up after they are acquired and then annually after that. Your pig may need to be sedated for examination. Your veterinarian will determine the vaccines that are advisable for your pig, based on your pig's potential exposure to pathogens, breeding status, and geographic location. An analysis of your pig's feces should be performed annually to check for gastrointestinal parasites. Pet pigs should be screened for mites through a skin scraping. Veterinarians also will often help pig owners with hoof care and tusk trimming. Neutering of males and spaying of females is recommended for all pigs.

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General Facts About Mini-Pigs

There are many breeds of miniature pigs, including the Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. In addition to pot-bellied pigs, the term mini-pig includes an additional 14 recognized breeds of small pigs including Julianas and KuneKunes. Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs can be as heavy as 200 pounds, reach a height of 14-20 inches at the shoulders and typically live for 14-21 years. Mini-pigs communicate both with sounds and with body language. Mini-pigs should never be left alone unsupervised with even the friendliest, potentially predatory, dogs and cats. Mini-pigs are very smart and can be trained to walk on a leash/harness and to sit, stay, come, and retrieve objects.

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The Ins and Outs of Pet Doors with Microchip Sensors

Electronic pet doors with microchip sensors can make life easier for pet owners and their pets by giving the pet freedom to enter and exit the home without disturbing the owner; however, there are things to consider before installing one. The location, size, and type of door should be carefully considered in relation to the pet and outside environment. Following a few guidelines will make choosing and installing the best door a simpler task.

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Feeding the Mind and Body: Interactive Feeders for Dogs and Cats

Interactive feeders that require a pet to think and work for their food call upon the natural instinct to hunt or forage. Besides being fun, these food puzzles may help both physical and behavioral problems in cats and dogs. When used correctly, interactive feeders may benefit pets that eat too quickly, become bored when alone, or suffer from separation anxiety.

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Blah, Blah, and More Blah! Bland Diet Instructions for Dogs and Cats

When the digestive tract is upset, vomiting and diarrhea may result. Since the causes of these symptoms are varied, it’s best to consult a veterinarian. Often, a bland diet is recommended to rest the digestive tract and to decrease vomiting and diarrhea. Bland diets consist of a single easily digestible protein source and a simple carbohydrate. Pet owners may prepare bland diets at home or choose one of the many commercially available diets.

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Where the Green Grass Grows: Grass Treats for Cats

Cat grass can be one of many cereal grains such as oat, wheat, barley, alfalfa, or rye. The grass is planted and cultivated indoors and presented to the cat as a supplement to the existing diet. Eating grass targets a cat’s natural instinct to forage and provides entertainment as well as nutritional and digestive value.

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Seasonal Flank Alopecia

Seasonal flank alopecia is a skin condition of dogs, in which affected dogs lose patches of hair on a seasonal basis. Although the cause of this condition has not been definitively determined, it is thought to be caused by an abnormal response of the hair follicles to the normal hormonal changes that occur with changing day length. This condition is purely cosmetic; therefore, no treatment is necessary. Melatonin can be used to speed hair regrowth and prevent hair loss in dogs that develop this condition on a recurrent basis.

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RAST Testing in Cats

A RAST test, or radioallergosorbent test, is a blood test that can be used to determine which allergens are causing a pet’s allergies. This test is often performed as part of the workup for atopic dermatitis in cats. The results of allergy testing are typically used to develop a hyposensitization plan for your cat, which helps desensitize your cat to allergens. Many cats treated with hyposensitization, formulated on the basis of RAST results, experience a significant reduction in the signs of allergic dermatitis.

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RAST Testing in Dogs

A RAST test, or radioallergosorbent test, is a blood test that can be used to determine which allergens are causing a pet’s allergies. This test is often performed as part of the workup for atopic dermatitis in dogs. The results of allergy testing are typically used to develop a hyposensitization plan for your dog, which helps desensitize your dog to allergens. Many dogs treated with hyposensitization, formulated on the basis of RAST results, experience a significant reduction in the signs of allergic dermatitis.

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Skin, Hoof, and Dental Care for Your Mini-Pig

The most common skin problem in mini-pigs is dry skin that results from a dietary deficiency of fatty acids. In addition to dry skin, mini-pigs commonly suffer from sarcoptic mange, parakeratosis, yeast dermatitis, and sunburn. Hooves of mini-pigs grow continuously throughout life and need to be trimmed periodically. The canine teeth (tusks) of male pigs grow throughout life, while those of females stop growing at about two years of age. Starting after the pig is about a year of age and usually after giving the pig a sedative, your veterinarian will trim tusks during an examination.

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Housing and Environment for Your Mini-Pig

Mini-pigs may be housed successfully inside if they are given enough space, an area in which to root, and proper environmental enrichment. Ideally pet pigs should have access to a safe area of untreated lawn outside in which to root and chew on grass. Pet pigs generally like to urinate and defecate in a single area that is far from where they eat and sleep and can be trained to eliminate either inside and outside. Pigs in urban environments may be taught to walk on a leash/harness and go outside like dogs. If this is not feasible, they can be trained to use a litter pan indoors.

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Physical (Social) Distancing and Your Pet During the COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 is a human respiratory disease that was initially discovered late in 2019. This disease is caused by a new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, that has not previously been identified in humans. Physical distancing, or social distancing, is one of the most effective strategies available to reduce the spread of COVID-19. While physical distancing, walking your dog is fine as long as you are feeling well and can remain at least 6 feet away from other people. If you have cats, find new ways to play with them indoors. Many veterinary clinics are adjusting their policies to reflect physical distancing guidance related to COVID-19. If your pet needs veterinary care (or if you need to pick up medication, a prescription diet, etc.), call your veterinary hospital first to determine how to proceed.

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Tips for Dog Walkers During the COVID-19 Pandemic

**This article has been specifically written for dog walkers and how they can reduce their exposure to COVID-19.**COVID-19 is a new respiratory disease in humans, initially discovered late in 2019. Although all coronaviruses are related, they are not all the same virus; SARS-CoV-2 cannot cause canine coronavirus infection, and vice versa. As a dog walker, it is important to limit direct contact with your clients. People can shed the virus without showing any symptoms of disease, so it is important to practice physical distancing even with clients who appear healthy. It is also important to limit your contact with potentially contaminated items in your clients’ homes, whether they are at home or not. The most important things you can do to minimize your risk of infection, and minimize the risk of transferring infection to your clients, is to be cautious when interacting with clients and when touching anything that could be contaminated. Communicate with your clients regularly during this pandemic. Having information about your clients’ health can help you avoid taking unnecessary risks. Finally, if you develop any signs of COVID-19, including cough, fever, and/or shortness of breath, it is important that you stay home from work.

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Flea and Tick Prevention

Flea and tick prevention consists of a variety of products used to control flea and/or tick infestations on your pet and to prevent infestations inside the home. Fleas and ticks can be found worldwide. Fleas can live in many climate zones, but they prefer humid and shady areas, such as under leaf litter. Ticks can also live in many climate zones, and prefer humid and shady environments, especially areas with woods, shrubs, weeds, and tall grasses. Prevention is key to avoid infestations in your home, severe allergic reactions (in both pets and people), and to prevent disease. Many flea and tick preventives are available. Your veterinarian will help you find an appropriate product that works best for your and your pet.

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Preventing Separation Distress During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the pandemic so many pet owners have been at home with their pets more than ever before. As we return to work and life outside the home after this period of constant connection, our pets may be at risk for developing or displaying signs of separation distress. If your pet is showing the signs listed here, tell your veterinary team right away. Try to avoid pairing specific actions and activities with infrequently leaving home. The goal is to prevent creating a link in the pet’s mind between departure cues and feelings of anxiety about being alone. When you are getting ready to leave, no drama, and the same when you return. Be calm, reassuring, and relaxed. Practice separations help assess if pets are comfortable being left alone. If you are not sure if your pet is comfortable alone, a video camera is a terrific tool to check in. If you are concerned your pet may have separation distress or separation anxiety, reach out to your veterinary team.

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Preventing Separation Distress During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the pandemic so many pet owners have been at home with their pets more than ever before. As we return to work and life outside the home after this period of constant connection, our pets may be at risk for developing or displaying signs of separation distress. If your pet is showing the signs listed here, tell your veterinary team right away. Try to avoid pairing specific actions and activities with infrequently leaving home. The goal is to prevent creating a link in the pet’s mind between departure cues and feelings of anxiety about being alone. When you are getting ready to leave, no drama, and the same when you return. Be calm, reassuring, and relaxed. Practice separations help assess if pets are comfortable being left alone. If you are not sure if your pet is comfortable alone, a video camera is a terrific tool to check in. If you are concerned your pet may have separation distress or separation anxiety, reach out to your veterinary team.

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Preventing Separation Distress During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the pandemic so many pet owners have been at home with their pets more than ever before. As we return to work and life outside the home after this period of constant connection, our pets may be at risk for developing or displaying signs of separation distress. If your pet is showing the signs listed here, tell your veterinary team right away. Try to avoid pairing specific actions and activities with infrequently leaving home. The goal is to prevent creating a link in the pet’s mind between departure cues and feelings of anxiety about being alone. When you are getting ready to leave, no drama, and the same when you return. Be calm, reassuring, and relaxed. Practice separations help assess if pets are comfortable being left alone. If you are not sure if your pet is comfortable alone, a video camera is a terrific tool to check in. If you are concerned your pet may have separation distress or separation anxiety, reach out to your veterinary team.

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Curbside Veterinary Care: Benefits for You and Your Pet

Hospitals providing curbside care have restructured their practice to avoid the need for clients to enter the lobby and exam rooms. This is designed to promote physical (social) distancing and reduce the spread of COVID-19. Curbside care offers a number of benefits for you and your pet. By eliminating the need for you to enter the hospital, potential COVID-19 outbreaks are reduced. The veterinary team is protected under a curbside care model, and in turn, so is your pet. Even in curbside care, you will have an opportunity to speak with your veterinarian in order to discuss findings and recommendations. To help the curbside appointment go smoothly, bring a written list of concerns or fill in any forms your practice has sent to you prior to the appointment. Curbside care truly is in the best interests of you and your pet.

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Dental Disease and its Relation to Systemic Disease in Pets

Dental disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition in which the tissues supporting the teeth become inflamed. When a pet develops dental disease, significant quantities of bacteria reside within the mouth and the oral tissues. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other areas, specifically the heart, liver, and kidneys, causing distant or systemic effects. The bacteria that are found within the mouth of pets with dental disease are the same bacteria associated with both endocarditis and valvular disease in dogs and cats.

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Life Skills for Pets: Crate Training and Confinement for Kittens and Cats

Crate training is most commonly used with dogs, but it can be useful for kittens and cats too. Crate training is useful in many situations, such as providing a safe place when home alone or unsupervised which prevents housetraining mistakes, a safe place to sleep undisturbed, to travel by car or airplane, for medical care and visits to the veterinarian, and for boarding or vacation camp. Starting while your pet is young makes training easier, but most pets can be trained. If your pet shows signs of distress (e.g., prolonged vocalization, trying to escape, salivation, rapid continuous movement) while using the training methods provided in this handout consult with your veterinarian.

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Strokes in Cats

Strokes are rare in cats. Some causes include a blood clot such as a thrombus or embolus that lodges in a cerebral blood vessel, or cerebral bleeding from trauma or as a result of thrombocytopenia; however, the cause is often unknown. Signs of a stroke are variable depending on the region or regions of the brain affected, and the degree and duration of blood and oxygen deprivation. Magnetic resonance imaging is the ideal diagnostic test for diagnosing a stroke. Treatment is quite complex and there is no guarantee of complete success. Your veterinarian will help you assess progress and plan remedial action.

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Warfarin

Warfarin is given by mouth and is used off label to treat abnormal clotting in dogs and occasionally horses. Give as directed. The most common side effect is abnormal bleeding, and this should be reported to your veterinarian. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, pets with bleeding diseases, active bleeding, aneurysm, acute kidney disease, brain bleeds, blood cell diseases, uncontrolled high blood pressure, liver disease, certain types of carcinoma, pets about to undergo certain surgical procedures, or pets that are pregnant. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.

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How to Trim a Cat's Nails

It may take several weeks to build up to performing a full nail trim and that is perfectly normal and acceptable. The goal is to make nail trims and positive and stress-free as possible for your cat. Taking the time to desensitize your cat to handling and nail trims will pay off in the long run, by making all of your cat’s future nail trims more pleasant.

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How to Trim a Dog's Nails

Most dogs need to have their nails trimmed approximately once monthly. Dogs that are frequently walked on pavement or concrete may be able to go a bit longer between nail trims, because walking on a hard, rough surface can help file the nail. Dogs that are inactive or do not spend any time on hard surfaces may even need nail trims a bit more frequently, such as every three weeks.

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Introducing New Adult Cats

In some cases, two laid-back adult cats can be easily introduced with minimal drama. In other cases, however, the introduction does not go as smoothly. Some adult cats may physically fight with each other, resulting in potential injuries. Even in the absence of physical aggression, introductions can provoke anxiety that leads to inappropriate elimination, decreased appetite, or other signs of stress in one or both cats. Fortunately, you can help increase the likelihood of success by introducing two adult cats slowly and gradually.

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Routine Fecal Testing: FAQs for Dog Owners

Routine fecal examinations are used to detect intestinal parasites in your dog. This handout discusses how the tests are done and why regular testing is critical to the health of your pet.

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Exercise Restriction in Dogs

Exercise restriction refers to the act of intentionally limiting a pet’s physical activity. Veterinarians often recommend exercise restriction to allow a pet to heal after a surgical procedure or injury, although it may also be recommended to prevent worsening of a medical condition. Different circumstances require different degrees of exercise restriction, so your veterinarian’s guidance is essential when implementing exercise restriction.

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Leopard Geckos: Care and Feeding

Leopard geckos make great pets for the children and adults. They do not require elaborate set-ups and have a 10-15 year life span with good health care, a clean environment, and proper feeding.

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